Issuu

Issue 110 | December 2011/January 2012

Rebuilding Christchurch Return to the CBD:

Progress, issues & obstacles

Taking shape:

Market forces, not pretty planning, will form the city’s future

Home entertainment:

Staying in is the new going out

The seven deadly sins How to lose money and fail in business

The trip of a lifetime

John Anderson has turned a jaunt around Europe in a second-hand van into the tourism empire Contiki

CroisiEurope

A revolution in affordable river cruising

Europe’s exceptional pulling power is withstanding the strains of global recession, with New Zealand travel agents reporting strong and constant booking interest. There are many ways to explore the bountiful continent, but for a long time, I have yearned of sampling the joy of a European river cruise. In May, I was lucky enough to realise this sightseeing objective, as part of a spring swing through Europe.

affordable for mainstream travellers.

The dawn of the northern spring is a fabulous time to visit. You’ll queue jump the summer tourist crush, and the daily mercury across Western Europe tops out around a comfortable 20C. In the past decade, the river cruise boom has continued to explode, with a dozens of operators plying Europe’s renowned waterways. The Seine, Rhone, Rhine and Danube have all been lionised in prose, paint and music. These rock-star ribbons of water weave their way through the very heart and soul of the continent. The largest river cruise operator is the French-based, family-owned CroisiEurope. The company has been plying Europe’s storied waters for over 30 years, with a fleet of 27 vessels. The company offers a dazzling range of tours and destinations, spanning over a dozen nations, ranging from 3 to 15 days in duration. What I particularly like about CroisiEurope is its exceptional value for money. Some cruise operators pander to the big money-spenders who routinely fly “first class.” Their vessels are decked out like floating 5-star hotels, where no expense is spared, which subsequently explains why their cruise tariffs are so pricey. As a general rule of thumb, a Croisi cruise is only half the price of their competitors, with the company determined to remain accessible and

I would assess the standard of the accommodation and on-board facilities as equivalent to a good 3-star hotel. My cabin was bright, spacious and comfortable, complete with air-conditioning, satellite television, panoramic window views and a great en-suite. True to their French character, the onboard dining is exemplary, with a tempting menu of dishes, in the proud tradition of French gastronomy. All meals are included in the cost of the cruise, and a very nice touch is the complimentary wine service that accompanies lunch and dinner. With no more than 180 passengers on-board, a wonderful sense of warmth and intimacy is fostered. The multi-lingual staff set the tone with a delightful mix of relaxed professionalism and genuine friendliness, which cultivates a convivial atmosphere throughout the cruise. I chose to explore the mighty Seine River, which courses its way through French capital before wending its way north-west to the English Channel. Setting sail from Paris in the early evening, the twinkling city lights and landmark sights made for a memorable departure. The first stop was in the fairytalepretty village of Les Andelys. Our tour group ascended the hill overlooking the village, and marvelled at the glorious views across the rolling countryside and down to the curving beauty of the Seine River, as it laces its way through the landscape. A short drive from Les Andelys brings you to Chateau of Vascoeuil. This historic estate has been restored as a boutique art gallery, playing host to all manner of French artworks. The restoration of the chateau was principally cheer-led by the

former French president, Francois Mitterand. Back on board the river boat, several hours later, you’ll arrive in the medieval tourist mecca of Rouen. The former capital of Normandy, Rouen boasts one of Europe’s biggest Gothic churches and the market square, Place du Marche, is where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake. The square is flanked by an enchanting cluster of half-timbered and brightly painted buildings. Your camera will get a serious workout. From Rouen, my cruise headed further up the Seine, under the mighty Normandy Bridge before docking in the enchanting port of Honfleur. This colourful fishing village is a hotbed for painters, with hordes of wannabee impressionists beating a path to the village from all over the world, armed with an easel and paint brush. This is a great village to explore on foot as you crane your neck to admire the tall and slender historic buildings. Be sure to stop by St. Catherine’s Church, built entirely of wood. Sailing out of Honfleur,

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 3

Issue 110 | December 2011/January 2012

In this issue… Business Pointers 7 Management

Rebuilding Christchurch

• The seven habits of difficult employees

Return to the CBD:

Progress, issues & obstacles

Taking shape:

Market forces, not pretty planning, will form the city’s future

8 Coaching

Home entertainment:

Staying in is the new going out

The seven deadly sins How to lose money and fail in business

The trip of a lifetime

John Anderson has turned a jaunt around Europe in a second-hand van into the tourism empire Contiki

Canterbury Today

Issue 110

17,116 ABC circulation as at 30/06/10

www.canterburytoday.co.nz Head office

• Five essential steps for a successful turnaround • A positive mindsets is vital to success

9 Directions

• Media interviews are not like taking part in a conversation • The franchising sector is faltering as global economic worries impact business confidence

Regional Revival

Business Features

12 Contain Yourself

28 Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch

The Cashel St container mall puts a new spin on tin can alley as it marks a new beginning for the CBD

Academy House 47B Birmingham Drive Middleton PO Box 1879 Christchurch

14 Taking Shape

managing director

16 Hospitality

Gary Collins

General manager Rebecca Harris

operations manager Di Barclay

administration Kylie Moore admin manager Kelly Clarke Kimberley Wells Judy Slater Tayla Brown

sales & advertising Steve Dando sales executives George Ziegler Mandy Woods Melissa Sinclair Miranda Hearn Rob Cochrane Kerry Wilson Janet Campbell Mogens Petersen James Anderson Verne Williams

newsroom Jonathon Taylor editor Bridget Gourlay chief reporter Marie Sherry Kayte John Phone: Fax: Email:

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

production Ian Knott production manager Carolynne Brown production co-ordinator CJ McKay designers Kirsty Opie Jarred Shakespeare Sarah Betman Phone: Fax: Email:

03 940 4732 0800 555 054 production@academy.net.nz

Market forces, not pretty planning, will shape the central city Staying in is the new going out

18 A Day at the Races

Flash frocks and fancy hats come out to play as Cantabrians rediscover their sense of fun

19 Open for business

The Westpac business hub is getting the wheels of commerce rolling again

Features 6 Been Seen

Faces at all the right places

10 Cover Story

An urge to got travelling and an entrepreneurial bent were the driving forces that shaped John Anderson’s bright idea into the Contiki tourism empire

Delving into the progress, issues and obstacles surrounding repairing and rebuilding Christchurch from trades organisations prespectives

64 Focus

Cholmondeley has been looking after kids since 1925 and it’s time for Christmas in the Park

68 Hospitality

The Valley Inn Tavern has been rebuilt from scratch, White Tie Catering adds another string to its bow, Harrington’s Brewery celebrates a milestone and the Nor’Wester Café continues to put Amberley on the map

76 Celebrating …

Parks Garage closes in on its centenary and Heritage Productions turns 30

84 Business Development

Beaver Tree Services has grown beyond being just a landscaping and tree trimming concern, TotalPos Systems is at the forefront of sales, On the Spot Signs get the message across, Hazeldean Business Park breathes new commercial life into Addington, Southern Business Machines smooths out office work and take time out at Adrift on Golden Bay

96 Transport & Motoring

Gold Band Taxis and Waimea Contract Carriers are diverse transport businesses that are moving with the times

102 Property & Construction

Quinovic-Merivale is succeeding in making property management easy, JCL Asphalt is a surface specialist, Urban Paving and Landscape’s silt-made mementos are helping revive the city, PPL Electrical’s home and light commercial service, earthwork specialists Greenshore Contracting, eco-buildings built by Natural Log Homes, Stack Electrical, Drainage & Construction Tasman and Weirwalker Architecture’s role in giving our city new shape.

118 Agribusiness

Xcell Breeding Services is at the forefront of improving livestock here and overseas.

20 Online Shopping

Quick, cheap and easy it might be, but can it really replace retail therapy?

21 Events Diary

Courses, seminars and events near you

22 Travel

The neighbourhoods of Manhattan give New York its charm

23 Lifestyles

A place in the sun, a top drop, superb sounds, best foot forward, toast anytime and a wine lover’s best friend

24 Editorial Special

Workplace Temptations The seven deadly sins or how to lose money and fail in business by falling prey to an array of temptations and vices

Knowledge for growing business since 1985

Disclaimer: This publication is provided on the basis that A-Mark Publishing is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services. A-Mark Publishing expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2011 by A-Mark Publishing (NZ) Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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

Competition guidelines Conditions of entry: One entry only per person and must be sent on the official entry form or as otherwise stated. Entry is free and open to all residents of New Zealand. All entrants must be over the age of 18, proof of identity and date of birth may be requested. Employees and their immediate families of Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication are ineligible to enter. Winner(s) will be notified by email/phone. The judges’ decision is final, no correspondence will be entered into. No responsibility is accepted for late, lost or misdirected mail. Prizes are not transferable or redeemable for cash. Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever suffered (including but not limited to direct or consequential loss) or personal injury suffered or sustained, during the course of prize winning travel or in connection with any other prizes won. Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication accept no responsibility for health, luggage, insurances, travel, personal expenses and transfers other than specified. Entries remain the property of Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication and cannot be returned. Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication reserves the right to photograph and publish winners. Entries may be used for further marketing purposes by Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication but are not made available to any third party.

www.magazinestoday.co.nz 4 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Quake inspires new venture and shift to Hamilton Business—friendly Hamilton is the new home of a former Christchurch couple whose house was badly damaged in February’s earthquake.

“We’ve made good contacts in a very short time with all types of people. Opportunity Hamilton, and everybody, has been very welcoming,” Stefan said.

Stefan Doll and Dr Adrienna Ember moved to Hamilton with their three children recently to escape the shaky city and to start their new business.

Starting afresh is nothing new for the couple, who previously lived in Adrienna’s native Hungary and Stefan’s homeland Germany before immigrating to New Zealand.

Stefan resigned from his job as a Christchurch City Council human resource manager to make the move after deciding Hamilton offered what his family wanted for a fresh start. Waikato’s ranking as the second fastest growing economy in New Zealand, its size and proximity to Auckland and Tauranga were factors in their choice, but the region’s geological stability was the ultimate decider. “Hamilton is growing fast, which is important. But first we looked at safety. Hamilton is the safest place in New Zealand when it comes to natural disasters,” Adrienna said. Adrienna was set to launch a life coaching business when the February quake stuck, ultimately inspiring the couple’s shift north to establish their business, the New Zealand Institute for Diversity and Wellbeing. The pair contacted economic development agency Opportunity Hamilton, who used networking links to connect them with the Waikato business community.

“We would like to use the skills and knowledge that we’ve gained in our many years working in human resources, research, education and life-coaching to help business people and society. The topic of diversity is so important for businesses,” Stefan said. They spent the last five months in Europe holidaying and researching diversity in the workplace before embarking on their latest venture. “We want to show people here how they can work in a diverse workspace more efficiently and reap the many benefits of cultural and ethnic differences. This is the way things are heading in Europe and we can show New Zealand how to benefit too,” Stefan said.

However, ignoring the challenges of diversity can be disastrous.” The pair also hopes to attract international researchers to study New Zealand as an example of cultural diversity. “We see New Zealand as a great example because of its unique history as a small, culturally diverse nation. We hope to see New Zealand on the international research landscape,” Stefan said. The pair will initially operate the business from their Hillcrest home and can be contacted at nzdiversity@ xtra.co.nz.

Maximising the benefits of cultural diversity can improve access to new markets, staff relations and can enhance communication with different customer groups, they said. “If businesses can find a way to extract the benefits of diversity the results are often astoundingly positive.

For further information visit www.opportunityhamilton.co.nz or www.investwaikato.com. Business owners can contact Sandra directly at sandra@opportunityhamilton.co.nz

November, 2011 Dear Christchurch business owner, Along with the rest of the world, the Hamilton business community is eagerly anticipating a fast and efficient recovery for you. In the wake of the earthquake Hamilton business owners pledged their support via the website www.hamiltonchristchurch.co.nz with offers of rent-free office space, donated equipment, fulfilling contracts on your behalf and temporarily employing staff while you recover. As the months have passed it has become apparent that for some Christchurch businesses recovery will be difficult or impossible. Therefore, Hamilton is reaching out again, pledging support to any Christchurch business wanting to relocate to Hamilton. After all, Waikato is a better choice than Australia! Located in New Zealand’s growth triangle, Waikato is the fastest growing region in the country behind Auckland. Hamilton is centrally located, and is a great place to live, work and play. It is also geologically stable. So if you are ready to make the move, we are right beside you. Please feel free to contact me personally sandra@opportunityhamilton.co.nz. We look forward to welcoming and supporting you. Kind regards, Sandra Perry

Chief Executive Opportunity Hamilton Economic Development Agency for the City

www.opportunityhamilton.co.nz www.hamiltonchristchurch.co.nz www.investwaikato.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 5

View these photos and more online at www.canterburytoday.co.nz

beenseen Images taken and supplied by Lynne Puddy-Greenwood, Events Editor. If you have an event that you’d like covered, email Lynne at lynne.p@academy.net.nz

Body FX

Radio Network Classic Hits Radio Network held the launch of the new look Classic Hits at the Monza Bar at the Casino.

Jason and Dave (the breakfast team).

Robyn Columbus, Tori Lean, Megan Keith Mitchell, Alix Wagemaker.

Sara, Kelly and Sharon (TRN).

Diane Thomson, Glenn Thomson (Mobivac), Annette Eagleton.

5 6

Bodyfx, the new gym in town, celebrated its opening with members recently.

11 Reece McCaffrey, Kim

Wilkinson, Kirsten Gullery, Crystal Pratt.

12 Murray Knowles (Edward Gibbon), Barb Meyer.

13 Sarah and Avon Zwarts (Retail Interiors), James Hayes (CPIT), Danna Evans.

14 Moana Williams,

Kirsten Gullery (BodyFix).

15 Maddie Foster ,Marg Foster.

Dave and Glen Klyne (Sales Manager TRN).

16 Brad Williams (Bodyfix),

Jason Gunn (Classic Hits), Andrew Britt (TRN).

17 Steve Dingwall, Jane Wyles,

Allergy & Gluten Free Show

Richard Hutton (AMI).

Exhibiters toast the success of the Allergy & Gluten Free show at the Pioneer Stadium ,

Tiny Middleton, Phillipa Fabner.

18 Vito (SI Fresh Foods),

Michelle Blakely (McBeauty & Nails), Sue McCrea (Immediate), Tania Leighs (Pottery World).

The Classic Hits Team.

Ged Mooar (Addington Races), Sharon, Jimmy Farrant (TRN).

Penny (Bush Road), Janine (The Power of Seven), Sarah (GF Show), Tony (SI Fresh Foods).

19 Jo Williamson (gf treets), Phil (Healthy Food Guide). 7

20 Robin and Lois Geer

(Retro Organics).

10 Roger, Carol Townsend

21 Jenny, Phil and Tim

(Stadium Cars).

(Venerdi Organic GF Breads).

11 Virna and Tash

22 Tony Lavery (MD of

(McKenzie & Willis)

Jon Jon Bakers), Lyn Eyles (Jon Jon), Debbie Poulsen (Tastes Devine), Christina Johns (Jon Jon).

The Home Show The Home Show at the CBS arena saw stand holders enjoy a great turn out. 1

23 Jacob & Andrew (Shade Plus), Jeff & Meranie (Stone & Tile Solutions).

24 Matt ,Rich and Andrew (Specialised Construction Products), Robbie (Fire & Stone). 2

6 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

25 Amanda, Sharon, Alyssa and Shannon (Exhibition Events NZ).

News | Management

Dealing with

difficult employees By Dr Mary Casey

Every manager knows the frustration of a difficult employee in the workplace — from the late starter to the incessant whinger. While diversity in a workplace can bring the best set of skills to the business, managers need to be alert to any behaviour which can harm the business and its culture, says a leading workplace communications expert. Most managers, at some point, have had to deal with an employee who has soured the workplace culture, reduced productivity, wasted time or discredited co-workers.

Seven types to avoid … The social networker The tardy employee

The seven difficult employee types and strategies for dealing with them are: An addiction to Facebook, Twitter or mobile

The seducer

Strategic friendships and allegiances is the goal for these types — they pick and choose their networks to benefit their careers. These relationships are self-serving and damaging to business. They praise you, compliment you and may even buy you small gifts in order to manipulate and seduce. Being aware of this type of behaviour is the first skill employers require, because we all love praise and compliments and we therefore easily get caught up with this kind of manipulation. Set strong boundaries for acceptable behaviour with other employees.

The back-stabber

These employees discredit their co-workers When dealing with a difficult employee, and take credit for more work than they what works for one may not work for another. have done. This kind of behaviour highlights a deep insecurity in these employees. An As no employee is the same, you need employer’s best strategy is to be open to specific strategies to most effectively deal feedback from other employees and confront with their personalities. the employee with what they have said or The most beneficial action a boss can do when done — let them know their behaviour is unacceptable. Be unemotional. It is a good dealing with any employee’s behaviour is idea to speak to them in private because, giving them feedback on it immediately and being insecure, they don’t cope with holding them accountable. Ensure you keep confrontation or assertiveness. communication open and flowing.

phones will have significant effects on the productivity of any employee. Set a strong policy for internet usage, specifically outlining boundaries on social networking as it is a new phenomenon. Ensure it outlines consequences for abusing the policy. With a strong policy, you can hold your employee accountable when they are caught online.

The martyr

These people blame everything and everyone rather than take responsibility for something that they have or haven’t done. They have a “poor me” attitude and try to make those around them feel sorry for them. They use this behaviour to manipulate. Keep these people responsible by putting the onus back onto them. Put your concerns in writing, outlining the exact details of their behaviour and how it negatively affects the company culture.

The iceberg

Cold and non-communicative, these employees rarely keep you or their team up to date on their work, don’t contribute in meetings and keep to themselves along with any information they may have. Dealing with these types takes courage and assertiveness. Ask open-ended questions so that they are forced to give you information. If they often answer ‘I don’t know’, a good tactic is to ask ‘What if you had to guess?’ or ‘What if you did know?’”

These employees keep to their own clock — they might arrive late, take long lunchbreaks, leave right on time or make regular personal appointments during work hours. Tardiness should be addressed in a professional manner. Explain that their behaviour shows lack of commitment and hurts morale by letting co-workers see that they are breaking the rules, while the rest are doing their part to obey them. If they have a good reason for coming in late — such getting young children off to school or study commitments — find a compromise between their schedule and work that won’t affect the business or productivity and is seen to be fair by everyone.

The offloader

They ensure they have very little work on their plate while making themselves look very busy and important in front of their managers. When given a brief, they quickly make it someone else’s responsibility by briefing a junior or bringing another employee to each briefing. Often these employees are not confident in themselves to do the job, although they can be very confident communicators. It’s important that a clear and detailed job description and specific KPIs form the basis of their performance appraisals. Dr Mary Casey (Doctorate of Psychology) is CEO of Australian leading health and education organisation, Casey Centre. For more information, visit www.dealwithmanipulators.com.au

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 7

News | Coaching

Making

headway By John Treace

I have taken part in many business turnarounds in my career, and time and again noticed the same problems, regardless of whether the reason for the turnaround was a relatively minor situation or a reorganisation after bankruptcy.

Five essential steps for a successful turnaround … they don’t know how to accomplish it. It is imperative that a vision for the company be formulated and effectively communicated to all employees. Powerful companies have sales organisations that embrace a vivid vision of the future and employ sales representatives who are confident in their management and in their employment with the company.

Here are the five steps that need to happen during any major business adjustment and some of the pitfalls to avoid along the way. While this article will focus on sales teams, these steps are of a universal nature and will apply to most departments within a company.

5. Developing a strategic plan

1. Assessing the situation

Once a management team has defined the core values, culture and vision of the future, effective strategic planning can begin. It makes little sense to begin strategic planning before these first steps have been accomplished.

Before a successful business turnaround can be implemented, it is crucial to understand what got the company where it is now. Simply throwing money at a problem does not work. Providing that the company’s products or services are competitive, the issues affecting the performance of a sales team can range from an ineffective sales process to low morale, which is caused by any number of factors. In these situations, I have never seen a “bad” sales team, but I have seen plenty of lousy processes and plenty of low morale — both deal-killers that will destroy any company’s sales effort.

2. Defining a winning culture

Companies in need of a turnaround usually have ill-defined culture. We can test this by asking salespeople to describe the company culture as they perceive it. In failing businesses, employees will not be forthcoming, and answers will vary from person to person; you’ll find that no two sales reps share the same description. It is imperative that the sales team embrace a unified culture, one that will define success.

The strategic planning process should include the top management members who will be charged with implementing the plan. Powerful companies have solid strategic plans, and they effectively gain employee buy-in to them.

At the heart of culture are the core values a company embraces. Core values are like the Ten Commandments. They are simple action statements that define the principles the company believes in, not fuzzy declarations that can be interpreted at the whim of management. Core values define corporate culture, and companies without them tend to wander and underperform.

3. Managing people

People are the most important component of any organisation. Powerful investment groups

don’t invest in companies; they invest in people. Most failing ventures have poor methods of measuring individual’s sales results, so care must be taken in this selection process as making this determination is critical.

4. Creating a new vision

When companies fail, employee morale and confidence is degraded, and many high performers will look for employment elsewhere. Most employees in these situations want their company to prosper, but

Positive mindsets are vital to sales success

By Karen Degen

Without a positive mindset, anyone charged with selling goods and services is doomed from the beginning. This not only includes small business owners, but also professional salespeople. Most people working in sales have had training of some sort to teach them how to sell. They learn things like how to approach customers, what questions to ask them and how to close a sale. This is valuable and essential training, but it misses a vital aspect of success — the mindset of the seller. One of the first things salespeople are taught is how to set sales targets. What they are not taught is how to change their thoughts, beliefs and expectations

to be in line with what they want to achieve. Without the correct mindset, reaching our highest potential for success is unachievable. Many business owners and sales professional have a reluctance to make cold calls. The reason for this differs from person to person, but it’s commonly a fear of rejection. Most of us have been rejected in the past and when the person on the end of the phone turns us down it triggers all those old events, compounding the rejected feeling. That compounded effect of past rejections is so strong that we then expect the next person to reject us also.

One business owner I worked with hardly ever called her prospects. As a sole trader this was seriously affecting her business. In her case it wasn’t a fear of rejection, but a subconscious belief that she wasn’t

8 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

good enough. When she was a child a family situation created this belief, which was buried in her subconscious mind. The mere thought of making a call would trigger this, making her believe the prospect would find her lacking. She was generally a positive and motivated person, but the subconscious mind is far more powerful than the conscious mind and can stop us in our tracks. The change in her business practice after being cleared of this belief was immediate and profound, as she then expected prospects to find her worthy. Many companies are now hiring experts who work with the mind of their sales team to effectively increase business performance. One exercise I often give to salespeople is to sit for a moment before making that call and imagine in their mind the way they want it to go. They

Pulling off a business turnaround takes an intimate understanding of a business, including its customers, products, sales process, and employees. With the proper tools and an understanding of these five steps, you’ll be on the road to a successful and permanent business turnaround. John Treace has 30 years experience as a sales executive in the medical products industry and has spent a decade restructuring the sales departments of struggling companies. For more information visit www.treaceconsulting.com

visualise the prospect happily agreeing to a face-to-face meeting or buying the product directly. I then get them to imagine the feeling of pleasure and excitement when they get off the phone. Often our expectations create our reality, so we need to maximise our expectations. It’s important to know what you want to achieve and to expect success. Unfortunately most people don’t have big enough expectations of themselves or what they can achieve. Working with a mind expert can remove those comfort zones and increase those expectations. As we change our minds, we change our lives. Karen Degen is the owner of Set Free with EFT, a company that changes mindsets to create emotional freedom and business success. Email karen@ setfree.co.nz or visit www.setfree.co.nz

News | Directions

Franchisingfalters Confidence in the franchising sector has deteriorated markedly during the third quarter of the year. The optimism demonstrated in July Franchize Consultants’ Franchising Confidence Index survey has evaporated as the October 2011 survey reveals substantial deterioration in key franchising measures.

Loss

of context … or why media interviews are not like having a conversation …

By Pete Burdon

Many business leaders get into trouble in media interviews because they assume they are like any other conversation. Often these people are great communicators and competent speakers, but they are unaware that media interviews require an entirely new set of skills. How many times have you heard someone complain of being taken out of context? Most of the time, this happens because they don’t understand the important distinction between media interviews and other conversations. Apart from live television and radio interviews, every time you speak to a journalist, you risk being taken out of context. This is just the nature of journalism. It’s because a journalist will only use snippets of the interview in their subsequent story. They don’t have the space for more. You may speak for 30 minutes and only 30 seconds of your conversation may be used. This is totally different to giving a speech. Here you can build one idea on another, referencing something you said earlier to highlight a point. People in the audience get to hear the whole speech, so you can do this. You don’t have that luxury when you are talking to the media. You never know what parts of your interview will be used. That means everything you say must make sense on its own and not be reliant on things you say before or after each point you make. For example, in a real life conversation, if someone said to me, “How does it feel

to teach people how to lie to the media,” it would be fine for me to say, “I don’t teach people how to lie to. I train them to communicate the great things they are doing through the media.” The problem with this response in a media context is that the journalist may take the first part of that answer alone, so the story could focus entirely on, “Media trainer denies teaching people how to lie,” and not use the rest of my answer. This makes for a negative denial story and implies some shadiness on my part. Not every journalist will do this, but some will and it’s best not to give them the chance. Without the control of context, I would be better to answer with a positive statement like, “I’m proud that I train people to communicate the great things they are doing through the media.” You can see how I answered the question, but gave it a positive twist so it could not be taken out of context. The most famous example of this was Richard Nixon when giving his speech during Watergate. He explained how he had never profited from the Presidency and he had earned every cent. This was followed by the words, “I’m not a crook”. I don’t need to tell you which part of that speech was used by the media.

Franchisors were asked ‘how things are looking in their sector’, and service providers ‘how things are looking for franchisors and franchisees (generally).’ Most franchisors were finding trading challenging, although sentiment did vary markedly by sector. Although there have been more enquiries, franchise recruitment remains a challenge. As one franchisor noted “attitude to risk is still very conservative... finding the right people with sales ability is as difficult as ever”. This is reflected in the striking results for access to suitable franchisees. Franchisors across a number of sectors have also noticed customers being more prudent with their spending. Customers tend to be only spending to meet immediate essential requirements making selling extra services a harder task. This is echoed by the view of a service provider who responded “the global economic issues are still impacting on business confidence and consumer spending”. The entrance of international brands can bring an upswing for the market as pointed out by a service provider. However, some franchisors have also felt more pressure from increased competition within their sector.

Conventional reversal The availability of cheaper and more convenient alternatives for accessing goods (including the internet) are shifting consumers away from the conventional retail store experience. This coupled with high rent greatly concerns some. A few franchisors reported enjoying growth, particularly one in B2B that has experienced 22 consecutive months of same store sales growth. However, the majority indicated sales and margins pressures due to a reduction in spending, increased operating costs, and tighter financing conditions. Franchisors in the automobile and building and construction sectors are still finding it difficult to lift sales levels, and some sectors continue to feel repercussions from the Christchurch earthquakes.

Franchising Confidence Index October 2011 highlights: ¡ Both franchisor and service providers’ outlook for general business conditions deteriorated substantially from the FCI’s highs of July. Franchisors were less optimistic (net six percent), dropping 35 percent from the net 41 percent recorded in July. Franchising service provider confidence levels dropped 42 percent to a net 23 percent, from the previous July quarter ¡ Both franchisors and service providers registered falls in sentiment for franchisor growth prospects. Franchisors net sentiment fell from 39 percent in July to 17 percent. Meanwhile, service providers’ confidence (net 14 percent) took back 41 percent from their optimistic 55 percent in the previous quarter. ¡ Repeating the trend a year ago for the same quarter, franchisors’ attitudes for access to financing plummeted back to a negative state (-19 percent). Service providers managed to remain relatively positive but fell to a low nine percent. ¡ Both franchisors (net -8 percent) and service providers (five percent ) broke new lows in their outlook for access to suitable franchisees, underlining the recruitment challenges faced by many franchise systems. ¡ Access to suitable staff had the only contrasting movement in confidence in the survey between franchisors and service providers. Encouragingly, franchisors responded positively, climbing to a net 17 percent. On the other hand, service providers declined to 14 percent. ¡ Expectations for franchisees substantially fell. Operating costs remain negative with franchisee profitability levels closely following the same direction. ¡ Franchisors (22 percent) and service providers (14 percent) are less positive in their outlook for sales levels per franchisee. Sentiment toward franchisee operating costs remained firmly in negative territory with franchisors and service providers reporting a net -31 percent and -27 percent, respectively. Sentiment for franchisee profitability levels also fell. ¡ In summary, both groups share the view of an imminent slow year and inevitable tough business conditions with various external factors influencing the economy.

Franchize Consultants (NZ) Ltd Franchising Confidence Index is a quarterly survey of more than 350 New Zealand franchisors and 100 specialist service providers (consultants, banks, accountants, lawyers and publishers) to the franchising community.

In a nutshell, if you don’t want it used, not say it in any context.

Pete Burdon is managing director of Media Training NZ, a company specialising in training business people and niche groups how to communicate with the media. He can be contacted at info@mediatrainingnz.co.nz or via www.mediatrainingnz.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 9

News | Cover Story

The trip Above: Having fun on one of the early trips. Right: The first group in 1963. Below: The Contiki villa in Florence.

April, 1962. A restless John Anderson sits in his London bedsit, itching to see Europe. The young Kiwi’s caught the travel bug in a big way, fuelled by high school geography classes, a weekend in Paris and the trip to England from New Zealand via the exotic Middle East. It soon dawns on him that he isn’t the only Kiwi desperate to see the Continent. He crunches some numbers and figures out that if he fills a combi van with other young people and takes them around Europe he can charge them a set rate and go himself for free. He’s only been to France before and can’t speak any language other then English, but he’s determined to give it a shot. He puts up hand-written signs detailing his concept, finds some unsuspecting passengers, loads up his second-hand van and sets off. But as this haphazard van of mayhem meanders through Europe, so are the wheels of a new empire. Nearly 50 years on from that original trip, Contiki tours have taken more than two million passengers all around the world.

John Anderson believes he was born an entrepreneur. As a child he kept chickens and sold the eggs to neighbours, grew plants and sold them at local shops. Like many of the entrepreneurs he’s met, Anderson wasn’t a shining star at school. “Quite often when you’re in the B stream you’ve got to try that much harder. A lot of the guys or girls in A stream just take it for granted they will make it to the top, while for us in the B stream we’ve just got to try that much harder and it just follows through later in life, you make that extra effort because it’s become a habit.” It was that drive that spurred the creation of Contiki from a couple of successful trips in 1962. In ‘63, Anderson ran the tour a few more times, learning from his mistakes and making it smoother. It grew and grew. Soon he was employing drivers and tour leaders, sending several vans a year off to Europe. Always hungry for ways to make the trip better, he built tent villages within camp sites, and then bought iconic places such as a French chateau and an Italian villa for Contiki groups to stay in. The company went global. Within a few decades Contiki buses explored routes through New Zealand, Australia, the United States and Canada. Other operators jumped on his concept and formed rival companies but all but a few went under. Anderson left Contiki after the 1987 stockmarket crash. But at age 72, he’s far from retired. He works the professional speaking circuit, has started another tourism company and has written a book titled Only Two Seats Left about Contiki’s success.

Build a brand One of the things Anderson stresses as the utmost importance is building a trustworthy brand. Contiki has been around for 50 years, and that’s no accident. “I say the most valuable asset to any company is its brand. People challenge me and say ‘no, it’s the people’ and I say the people are important but they move on and the brand is there forever. “Brands that tend to be around after 50 years are the reasonably honest brands. A brand that’s not honest doesn’t last the test of time as the consumer or media flush them out. “Trust is the most important element. Contiki is now benefitting from this. Once you’ve got a brand people can trust, then you can tag other products onto it. They’ve gone into South America because the brand is trusted and people will go, they won’t give seconds thoughts on — is the company reliable, will it deliver? They’re now into Asia and China.” He says building a trusted brand is the way you can get the most effective and cheapest form of advertising — word of mouth sales. “Contiki itself hardly ever advertises,” Anderson points out.

10 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Manux Solutions

Infrastructure Solutions • IT Supply Services • Maintenance Contracts • Support Contracts • Professional Services

Backing up your business Christchurch central city businesses which had servers backed up remotely by Manux Solutions were back up and running within hours of the February earthquake. Manux has been working with New Zealand businesses since 1991 and today employs 23 staff from its head office in Christchurch and regional centre in Auckland. Initially a software development company, Manux has grown to deliver a wide range of business solutions during its 20 years of operations. Creating business solutions is still a core part of Manux’s work today and is focused on delivery across key areas of business solution — project management, solution design, development, integration and support.

Backup and recovery

Manux business development manager Peter Kirsopp says one of the company’s key areas of focus in recent years has been the development of a comprehensive backup and recovery system for its business clients. “We implemented our first localised full system backup and recovery solution in May last year utilising the Manux Recovery Server (MRS),” he says. Manux Solution’s L7™ Backup and Recovery services delivers the ability to backup individual computers, laptops and servers over the internet to the Manux L7™ secure data centres, offering a fully automated data backup service. Data can be backed up from as often as every 15 minutes, to hourly and daily, depending on the customer requirements. The recovery of data is simple — Manux can restore missing documents, spread sheets, databases or entire servers at a click of the mouse.

Real benefits for businesses Manux Solutions had two client businesses working in the same building in Gloucester Street when the February quake struck. While both clients had a dedicated local Manux Recovery Server (MRS), one backed up onto tapes for getting their backups offsite, and the other had their backups transferred over the internet securely to a remote backup and recovery server in the Manux datacentre. The first client was not able to gain access to their offices for several days to recover tapes that unfortunately had all been onsite at the time the February 22 quake occurred, making it impossible for Manux to recover their data, while the second client, Monad Pacific Management, was fully operational within two days from a new temporary office space, after fully restoring their servers, applications and data from the remote backup servers to the Manux online recovery servers. “That example shows two sides of our backup solution, both of which do work, but care has to be taken to make sure there is always something offsite,” says Kirsopp. Monad operations manager Steve Goy says his company was extremely fortunate to have a full backup solution with Manux.

Cloud Solutions • Hosted Exchange 2010 • Virtual Desktop • Virtual Servers • Application Servers • Virtual Recovery Managed Solutions • Firewalls • Remote Access • Servers • SPAM & Antivirus • Backup & Recovery • Application Hosting • Server Co-location Business Solutions • System Design • Application Development • Software Integration • System Integration • Project Management

“We were able to roll out the data and be up and running straight away. The cost of the system paid off for us big time.” Manux Solutions Suite 3, 21 Leslie Hills Drive Riccarton, Christchurch T (03) 963 1270 F (03) 963 1274 www.manux.co.nz

Local oware Co. helps out Building and Civil Contractors with Rebuild ull in proceeings ieal me to upate sstems Our CostCon customer’s love the way they are freed up to grow their business. In the past, a major constraint on growing a construcon or contracng business was the availability of a scalable job cosng and accounng system. CostCon Managing Director, Don Rapley says, “we have a wide range of building, civil and associated trade contractor clients across New Zealand—60 in total. Our clients involved in the Canterbury rebuild include; Leighs Construcon, Calcon, Ranger Construcon, The Breen Construcon Company, NZ Maintenance Co and Armitage Williams.” CostCon Business Development Manager David Johnstone commented, “CostCon is used by small and large building and civil contractors, and a broad range of trade subcontracng companies. Customers like the way it is made speciﬁcally for companies undertaking work covered by the Contracts Act. They also like the way the CostCon team is proacve in seeking out ways to improve the soware to meet changing industry needs.” If you are looking to grow but feel your systems are holding you back give CostCon a call to ﬁnd out how they can help grow your business.

NZ Maintenance Co uses CostCon to grow their Canterur operaon Aer the eptember 200 quake, Barry Wehi, Managing Director, and his team heeded the call for assistance. Because Barry and his team were already competent CostCon users this gave them a head start when it came to bidding for repair projects across the EQR hubs. CostCon provides the straighorward detail to ensure the Hub staff get all the parculars they need to approve a claim in one fell swoop. Any variaon order is documented and detailed making it easy for Barry and his team to keep on top of paperwork. Barry comments, “Essenally we are a small focused team and the real challenge is that this type of EQR project work is admin intensive. CostCon nails the paperwork for us. As EQR got up and running, their paperwork requirements changed frequently. Because CostCon is so flexible, we could amend the reports or schedules to suit the Hub manager on the fly.” CostCon has freed up Barry and his team to focus on customer service, chasing new projects, building relaonships with a great network of subcontractors and the all-important health & safety compliance.

Drive Proﬁtable Growth

Armitage Williams Group takes on CostCon

During October the Armitage Williams group chose CostCon to enhance service to clients, drive team producvity and business profitability. Following a thorough review of internal systems, business requirements, and the available soware system opons, the Armitage Williams Group has chosen the Christchurch based CostCon soware package to handle their job cosng, accounng and documentaon requirements. The Armitage Williams Construcon and Interiors companies are ulising the earthquake induced “lull in proceedings” to replace ageing systems. Like many in the construcon industry, Armitage Williams are waing paently, poised to fully get in behind the rebuild in Canterbury. Ben Harrow, Construcon Group Director, believes that the project management and cosng structures they can deploy within CostCon, will free up Armitage Williams’ resource so they can focus on the real challenges in front of them. Ben acknowledges that their old systems would constrain their company’s growth. “CostCon will enable us to provide a higher level of service to customers and construcon partners. Our project team management are confident that CostCon will free us to focus on delivering cost effecve projects to ght melines.” Company Accountant, Ruth Kellow comments, “the high level of integraon that CostCon provides will free up my team’s me to get in behind the rebuild effort. I know our division management and client project managers require tailored reports, schedules and documentaon. CostCon’s flexible reporng gives us the tools to tailor the reports and forms to suit clients, insurers and rebuild project partners.”

call our Christchurch team; David or Don on 0800 462 662

Get your esmang, job cosng, accounng and contract documentaon sorted in the one integrated system. www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 13

News | Regional Revival

Taking shape While the current operational shape of Christchurch’s CBD is, via the container mall, distinctly rectangular, it is market forces that will determine how it looks in the future, not grandiose planning.

prescriptive limits on building heights and retail floor areas.

So sure of this is the Property Institute of New Zealand Canterbury/Westland branch, that it has lodged a submission on the Christchurch City Council’s Draft Central City Plan.

It cites the removal of motor vehicles from the CBD as unrealistic and impractical, stating that car parking for retail and office activity is paramount because restrictions and disincentives compromise development.

The submission says the central city area can be nurtured back to health through the age old prescription of market forces and consumer demand, and argues against

It recommends shelving light rail for now, supports a centrally located sports hub, wants affordable housing in the central city linked to occupant purpose (rather than simply low rents), and challenges the seemingly ‘anti-car’ tone in the plan.

The institute expressed optimism that given the right incentives for development and occupancy, a city will emerge that meets the

plan’s aspirations for a “strong, prosperous and resilient place where people want to invest, residents want to spend their time and where visitors want to stop for a few days”. While saying such aspirations are laudable, the Institute is “very concerned” at the plan’s commercial viability. Canterbury/Westland Branch chairman Marius Ogg says implementation is the key to the plan’s success. “For this to happen a level of market empowerment, to a degree which is not evident in the plan, is necessary,” he says. “The CBD needs to be made as inviting as possible for tenants, owners and developers to rebuild and reoccupy it with confidence and this will not be achieved through prescriptive

Specific points made in the submission include:

planning. Prohibitions and restrictions — particularly in relation to building heights, retail floor space and car parking — are not positive signals for investment and progress. Market dynamics need to be left to determine what happens within the CBD, without comprising the overall aim of the plan and revitalisation. Both can be achieved through appropriate design and implementation controls, rather than up front rulings. “The views expressed by the Property Institute in the submission are consistent with our philosophically founded belief that the market, rather than centralised prescription and prohibition, will ultimately play the dominant role in determining the shape and extent of redevelopment in Christchurch.”

n Building heights

n Affordable housing n Sports hub

n Car parking

There should be an emphasis on design and enhanced seismic standards, rather than blanket restrictions. If the design, seismic standards and direction are clear and appropriate, then the market should be allowed to dictate the height. It is possible to design and engineer tall buildings specific to geo-technical constraints. Exceeding seismic standards should be encouraged.

The Institute is opposed to the concept if it equates with low cost accommodation, likely to show early deterioration in appearance and occupied simply on the basis of low entry cost. Members see the real issue around central city housing as people having a reason to live there, over and above simple affordability. Housing should be linked to the residential needs of staff associated with key institutions and facilities such as the hospital, the polytechnic, the proposed sports hub and entertainment complexes. There are too many national and international examples of the adverse social consequences of cheap inner city accommodation where the sole criterion for occupancy has been affordability.

The market will respond badly to restraints on car parking in the central city. Short term car parking and retail activity are critically interlocked. Mechanisms to directly connect retailers to car parking should be supported. Retailers are seen as the people best positioned to decide on short term parking requirements and price. More than any other stakeholder, they know that as traders in the city’s core they have to compete with suburbia where parking is not so constrained.

n Retail floor space The total size retail footprint in the central city needs to be reconsidered, relative to the realistic demand for such space. A much smaller retail footprint, particularly to the fringe of the core, is required to create a concentration of vibrant retail space.

14 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

A sports hub with a family recreation focus, as distinct from a performance sport focus, is supported. It is described as a potential ‘anchor’ for the central city and would generate a high level of pedestrian traffic. The existing proposed location (near AMI stadium) is seen as too far away to provide any real support to or from the central core retail precinct. Preferred locations would be within easy walking distance of Cashel mall.

n Light rail The Institute notes its “immense cost” compared with other transport options and says an investment at the moment would absorb a disproportionate amount of the overall transport budget. There are other funding priorities. Attention should be concentrated on a dedicated bus system, but the corridors for a rail system could be provided for now and used in the interim as bus routes, cycle paths and other transportation passageways.

To get office workers, retail assistants and other mass occupation groups into the central city for their jobs, the Institute suggests a “park and ride” concept as a good compromise between private and public transport modes. This would involve driving to a strategically placed parking facility, then taking a public bus from there to work locations.

Server Technology’s objectives: l To partner with successful and reputable companies to provide the best IT and services l To achieve excellence in every aspect of our business and yours l To be innovative with our solutions to retain our competitive advantage l To provide reliable and efficient service and support l To meet the highest expectations of all our clients.

Simple formula Networking l Business network design and installation l Network troubleshooting, support and repair l Network security l Virtual private networks (VPNs) l Firewalls and routers l Wireless networking

Servers & workstations l Server imaging and backups l Hardware purchases l Designing new computer systems l Servers including exchange and SQL l Software installation and support l Networking l Wireless l Operating system installation l Software installation

Maintenance l PC troubleshooting and diagnostics l System tune-up and optimisation l Hardware inventory l Physical cleaning.

effective service Quality service backed up by years of experience is the simple formula for success that has worked well for IT business Server Technology.

Being innovative in its approach to challenges is how the company has kept its long-time customers.

Kelvin Foster and Phil Gibson left their previous employer last year because they felt they could offer their clients a better level of service. The pair was so trusted that most of its previous customers followed them, and that’s how Server Technology Ltd was born in August 2010.

“This will be pretty intense as we need to move all their emails and customer information onto the new system without disrupting the business. We’re currently in the design stage of this operation.

It’s been a tumultuous year and a half for Christchurch businesses, but Server Technology has worked hard to help its clients continue on throughout the earthquakes. “After February, a lot of companies had to relocate from the CBD to different offices, so we have been busy starting up internet connections, emails etc for various customers. We’ve had a lot of work,” Gibson says. Since the February earthquake there has been high demand for off-site backup, a challenge Server Technology has met. “We’ve got servers replicating themselves in real-time to an off-site server, located somewhere else — perhaps in the boss’ house. This gives our clients peace of mind that if another event hits, everything is saved off-site. Because it’s saved in real time, a document saved and closed a few minutes before an earthquake can easily be reopened later on.” Server Technology will work with companies of any size, offering solutions such as designing and setting up networks, maintaining them and fixing them. Both Gibson and Foster are Microsoft Certified Professionals; and with 25 years of experience between them, there aren’t many problems the pair hasn’t seen before.

A recent big project Server Technology has been working on is for an international company; replacing its current systems with new ones.

“We’ve been the IT guys for this international company for a long time — they started small but have grown a lot, they now have offices in the US and the UK — but have stayed with us throughout which I’m really proud of,” Gibson says. Looking to the future, customer service will continue to stay at the heart of the company’s ethos. “It probably sounds cheesy, but we just want to do the best for our customers as we can. “We’re not interested in branching out into home work, we’re happy to stick with offices of any size. We would like to grow the company to a point where we are busy enough that we aren’t actively looking for more work, but don’t get too big. “We want to keep overheads down and remain the active part of the business and not stuck behind a desk.”

Server Technology E enquiries@servertechnology.co.nz www.servertechnology.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 15

News | Regional Revival

Staying in to By Kayte John

go out

Before the February earthquake we were spoilt for choice. Christchurch was alive with colour and atmosphere. It offered us a vibrant and varied entertainment scene with something to suit all ages, tastes and budgets. And then, in the blink of an eye, all the flavours that delivered spice to our lives simply vanished. The last nine months has left us questioning what to do on a weekend. If you visit the suburbs on a weekend you will see bars and restaurants jam packed full of people. A suburban bar that was once your quiet local now requires a dress code, bouncer and a never-ending queue to enter and not everybody wants this. People are still going out and will continue to; but since February a trend of necessity hit Christchurch that’s not going away fast — staying in.

people but businesses. Jason Roberts, a solicitor by day and party planner by night, saw this trend as an opportunity. Roberts, who owns tourism-based events company Happy J, was determined to carry on but couldn’t continue organising centre city events. A clear cut case of adapt or perish.

“I decided not to sit my hands and sulk. I launched HappyHire. It specialises in the hire of marquees, disco lights, PA systems, portable bars and much more,” Roberts says. HappyHire deliver, set-up and remove everything, saving customers the hassle. It caters for special events such as weddings and birthdays. However, Roberts has seen an increase of people hiring his products for no special occasion but purely because they want a ‘night in’. “There are fewer options for people to go out and less options for people that are convenient. People have become more cautious about what they spend. You can have a very good event at home for a lot cheaper then having it out somewhere,” he says.

Many people are choosing to stay in even though there are a wide range of suburban places to go to for a night out. For most people they just don’t compare to the city atmosphere or may be too far out. Another common factor is money, people are realising its cheaper to stay in and have a good time rather than go out.

Along with HappyHire, Phil Kraal, owner of the Crumpet Club and catering company Le Bon Bolli, gave Christchurch residents the opportunity to come and dine at his home in Governors Bay. The fine-dining venue catered for groups of 18 to 22, with a nine-course degustation menu plus pre-dinner treats for $120. “It’s a great setting and I think people enjoyed the quirkiness of coming to dinner at a chef’s house. A lot of people in our market had lost their wine stock and I think they thought ‘let’s drink what’s left and live for today’,” Kraal says. Kraal has recently opened Bamboozle, an oriental fushion restaurant in Sumner. Lyme Bar’s Callum Batchelor has been hosting cocktail evenings in people’s homes. “More people are choosing to stay in and instead of having to be the host, they hire me and relax with their guests,” he says. Offering his service with a personal touch Batchelor provides the glassware, and talks to the clients to find out what cocktails, drinks they want to provide for their event. “Who else can say that they host a party for a living,” Batchelor says. Another Christchurch resident, Jackie Bellis, can. Since the earthquake she has been hosting slumber parties. These parties are aimed at women over the age of 18 who want to have some laughter and fun in the comfort of their own home. Bellis and the Christchurch team of eight are doing around 25 parties a week.

These ‘nights in’ are great; you get to spent quality time with friends and wake up without thinking you’ve been robbed because how much the drinks cost.

“The earthquake has changed the way we shop and socialise. People are realising they don’t have to go out to have a good time,” Bellis says.

The trend to stay in has attracted not only

Familiar faces . . . where are they now? Whether you choose to stay in or go out, new bars and restaurants are finally re-opening, giving us the choice again.

Dux de Lux Owner Richard Sinke has opened the doors of a new live music bar — Dux Live — on the corner of Lincoln Rd and Moorhouse Ave. Dux Live will host live bands and provide their famous craft beers along with their yummy pizzas and snack menu. Next year Sinke is planning to open Dux Dine, a restaurant which will feature their full food menu.

Strawberry Fare Good news for those with a sweet tooth, Strawberry Fare is re-opening on Bealey Ave in the former Harpers restaurant site. Café Metro is also moving to Merivale’s container complex on the corner of Merivale Lane and Papanui Road which opens mid December.

Honey Pot Café Re-opened on Colombo Street in Sydenham, the café still offers its great tasting coffee and delicious menu, along with the friendly staff and great service. Its new dinner menu is well worth trying as it has retained all of its old favourite dishes. 16 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Bangalore Polo Club The building on the strip was recently demolished but they vow to return. In the meantime check out Parklands Tavern, also owned by Louis Vieceli. A major revamp has transformed it into a sports bar and restaurant.

Belgian Beer Café Owner Mark McGuinness is not letting his red stickered building prevent him from moving forward. He has plans to reopen a smaller Belgian Beer Café and restaurant in the suburbs until he can move back to the city.

Dimitris Dimitris has re-opened on Mandeville Street in Riccarton, operating from its well known caravan. As a staff member said, “We don’t give up easily”.

Burgers and Beers Burgers and Beers was the brainchild of Andrew Brown, executive chef of The George. It now operates in Sydenham, again offering its great tasting homemade burgers, famous chips and gravy.

Lyme Bar Lyme Bar on Colombo Street was one of Christchurch’s best kept secrets. There are plans to reopen but in the

meantime check out Cargo Bar on Lincoln Road for its unique jam-jar cocktails, wine list and gourmet pizzas.

Flying Burrito Brothers Flying Burrito Brothers has re-opened just outside Northlands Mall in the old Pizza Hut, again serving up margaritas, delicious burritos, fajitas and filling nachos.

The Twisted Hop The twisted Hop has plans to re-open in Poplar Lane. In the meantime it’s looking to relocate and open two bars in Lincoln and Woolston. A lease has also been signed to open its brewery in Sockburn on an industrial site.

Dumplings Dumplings was located in Shades Arcade. Its world famous in Christchurch $2 rice made it a lunch destination for everyone. It has moved to Riccarton Road (close to Westfield Mall).

Simos Moroccan restaurant Simos, previously on Cashel Street, has moved to Lincoln Road and is open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-9pm. It has also opened Vivesano on Shakespeare Road, offering customers the best Moroccan and Andalalusian food products in Christchurch.

20 | October/November 2011

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 17

News | Regional Revival

Tales of a Cup Day novice… By Bridget Gourlay

I always thought of Cup Day and shuddered. I assumed it was about smelly horses running around a ring, and Merivale ladies one uping each over on the expensiveness and outrageousness of their hats. “No way”, the Canterbury Today photographer assured me. It was about drinking champagne, sitting in the sun and meeting well dressed men. “You don’t even have to look at the horses”, she said. Well, that sounds more like me, I thought, so off I went. Cup Day apparently always starts with a champagne brunch. When croissants are involved, I became very old-fashioned. This was a tradition I had to uphold. I met a group of girls at a friend’s house so we could get ready together but it immediately became clear that ‘getting ready’ is something one begins a long time before the actual day. Fake tans, fake eyelashes, fake nails were done over the weekend. The hair-do and the make-up was done early in the morning. The

champagne brunch version of ‘getting ready’ was just putting the icing on the cake — last minute touch-ups and eating some food to line our stomachs. I don’t wish to comment on how much champagne was drunk but I’m sure the taxi driver could make an educated guess. When we arrived, there was a huge crowd of people dressed to the nines, many of whom had clearly also put the emphasis on the champagne part of the champagne brunch.

Dress code on the day As I looked around at my fellow Cantabrians, it became immediately clear to me there are three different ways to dress for Cup Day. Some women go the whole hog. The designer dress, the expensive hair-do, the stilettos heels, the spray tan. Not to mention the fascinators; from feathers to droopy hats to flowers, no head was unadorned. Around this crowd, I felt like I’d stumbled into an Oscar Wilde garden party. I’m more lazy than vain, so I took the middle way. The not-brand-new dress jazzed up with borrowed heels and a fascinator, with half an hour spent on make-up and hair.

But there was a third category of dress that astonished my (Cup Day) virgin eyes. Some girls clearly thought they were going to a daytime version of Shooters, in their revealing dresses and orange tans. Fake nails, foot-long fake eyelashes and skin-tight clothing — it wasn’t to my taste, but that

didn’t stop them from getting a substantial amount of attention from the opposite sex. As I initially suspected, there were Merivale ladies with ostentatious hats. This rivalry wasn’t done through passive aggressive name-dropping but in a much more organised event known as the Fashion Show. Young and old strutted their stuff, to the enthusiastic cheering of friends and family. But no matter how well dressed people were, day-drunk is a difficult beast to predict. You might be able to handle a bottle of wine over dinner but drinking it at 11am is a whole new kettle of fish. There’s something fascinating about watching a girl in a $500 dollar dress puking her guts out into the bushes. I hadn’t seen such well dressed drunken antics since university balls. All in all, the event had the ingredients of a perfect day. The warm sun poked through the clouds, bathing us in sunshine for most of the afternoon. There were no sizeable aftershocks. The champagne flowed, the fashion parade was gorgeous and at the end of it, everyone poured themselves in taxis without fanfare. It was one of those rare moments in hard year that you realise Christchurch has still got it. When there’s blossom and sunshine, when there’s cheering and laughing, you forget for an instance about our ruined city and ‘that day’ nearly eight months ago. The turn-out of 20,000 plus showed many of us needed an opportunity to let our hair down and relax. My Cup Day first time was thoroughly enjoyable and I’d be happy to do it again in 2012. In fact, I might even watch the horse racing next time around. Who knows…

The bodypaint, spray tans, hats and fascinators… Cup Day was a chance to revisit old habits on a day that brings out the best and worst in everyone. Bridget Gourlay aired her preconceptions as she got into the spirit of the occasion.

New broadband service solves tricky access issues Now there is a solution for difficult or remote access to broadband. Matt Wilson, owner of BM Electronics and Wireless Web, has developed a wireless solution for broadband users which provides good quality access without being cabled in.

Huts and rural communities and is used by the likes of Skellerup and EQR (Fletchers’ earthquake recovery programme). Specialising in difficult solutions, Matt headed to San Diego use his skills to test a video streaming project at the America’s Cup World Series event.

With mini repeaters all around Canterbury, accessible locations include places like the Mt Hutt skifield, Rakaia

Keep an eye out early next year with his results in the February publication of Canterbury Today.

Broadband Supplier and Data Link Specialist For all your WiFi requirements from blanket coverage to high performance Point to Point links. Supply, installation, maintenance, training for Business, Education, Farm, Home.

Always seeking the hard to do projects. 0800 GET WEB (0800 438 932)

www.wirelessweb.co.nz 18 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

News| Regional Revival

A free operational

hub

for Christchurch business and community groups The recovery of hard-hit Christchurch businesses and community groups has been boosted by free access to the essentials of day-to-day business operations with the Westpac Business & Community Hub.

The licensed facility also has a VBase operated café and has hosted a breakfast for 200 people and a function with 400 guests. There is growing interest using the Hub for Christmas functions and the possibility of holding trade shows is being explored.

This facility provides various services including phone, broadband, video conferencing, work spaces, formal and casual meeting places and a corporate lounge.

“We’ve even been asked to host religious services on Sundays with many churches and church halls out of action. We’re starting to think about alternative uses after hours and at weekends,” Brophy says.

Located next to CBS Arena, the Westpac Business & Community Hub covers 2500sqm and can be extended. It is open to any Christchurch business and community group impacted by the earthquakes, whether Westpac customers or not.

The bank hopes the Westpac Business & Community Hub goes some way to help Christchurch get back on its feet and looks forward to supporting business/community groups in the region with this initiative.

John Brophy, Westpac’s South Island manager of Business Banking, says the Hub is a result of customer feedback, with Westpac contacting 3000 business customers in Christchurch after the quakes.

“Westpac has been integral to New Zealand and Canterbury for 150 years. We pride ourselves on that and on listening to our customers. The Westpac Business & Community Hub is an example of those two attributes.

“The overwhelming response was practical. Help was needed for organisations to maintain daily operations and important business relationships,” says Brophy. “We decided to provide a solution — the Westpac Business and Community Hub, offering essential business tools in a business environment free of charge.”

“There is a very generous spirit here. We’re keeping an open mind as to how long the Westpac Business & Community Hub will remain open — but expect it to continue for as long as people need it.” For more information visit www.estpacbusinesshub.co.nz or or call 0800 CHC HUB (0800 242 482)

Many organisations, suppliers and customers have had to relocate due to the quakes, making face-to-face meetings and ongoing business relationships difficult. The Westpac Business & Community Hub is easy to access and already acting as a meeting place for sole operators, businesses and not-for-profit groups. “Commerce is definitely happening, which is a key driver behind the initiative,” says Brophy. “The atmosphere within the Hub is so positive. People are re-connecting with suppliers and customers, and even doing new business with contacts they’re making. “Some days are busier than others — but there have been times when every single office, apart from a few hot desks, has been booked. The seminar room for 40 people and two boardrooms for 10-14 people are generally solidly booked.” Most people book temporary space for anywhere from one hour to a few weeks, with semi-permanent tenants including the Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce, Inland Revenue, the New Zealand Retailers Association, and several accountants and lawyers.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 19

News | Online Fact File ¡ Almost half of the New Zealand population shopped online in 2011 ¡ Each shopper spent an average of almost NZ$1400 ¡ Total country online shopping expenditure for the year is expected to reach $2.68 billion ¡ Of the 2.68 million, an estimated $910 million or 34 per cent will be spent with offshore online retailers ¡ Online shopping has increased 12 percent since 2010 ¡ Online retail expenditure accounts for 5.1 percent of all retail sales. This puts New Zealand on a par with Australia but still well behind USA and UK markets.

Click on to

online shopping By Bridget Gourlay

I recently read an amazing book, the type where you become so engrossed in the world the author has painted that when you are pulled out of it you look around, blinking, momentarily startled at your surroundings. With a friend’s birthday coming up, I knew it would be the perfect gift. So I hopped online and checked out what Amazon was selling The Tiger’s Wife for. It’s a popular book that recently won the Orange prize so I wasn’t surprised to find I could get it delivered to my door for $10. To buy it in hardcover, it was $21.

Being Gen Y I’m surgically attached to my keyboard, so online shopping is just a natural extension of myself. But there is another option and that’s (brace yourself) buying it at an actual, real live shop! But therein lies the rub — it’s often much more expensive. At the shopping mall closest to me, a large nationwide bookseller was selling The Tiger’s Wife for $27.99. Even a New Zealand book, Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones was $29.99 at the bookseller, and $15 from Amazon. Shopping has been part and parcel of economies since human history began. Thriving markets existed in Ancient Egypt and Greece thousands of years ago, and in the world’s biggest cities, street names became synonymous with retail — the Champs Elysee, Fifth Avenue, Oxford Street. But with the advent of the internet, it’s possible to buy things online with just the click of a button. No longer do we have to physically go to the shops for a bottle of perfume or a tennis racket. It’s easy to hop on the internet, choose what you want and have it delivered to your door. Even with postage fees, eliminating middlemen, shop rents and staff salaries make many items cheaper than they would be in store. Price Waterhouse Coopers and Frost & Sullivan released a report earlier this year which showed online shopping increasing to NZ$2.68 billion in 2011 — an increase of 12 percent from 2010. Almost half of the New Zealand population will shop online in 2011 with each customer spending an average of almost NZ$1400. These figures are set to increase again, with the total online spend reaching $4.22 billion by 2015. So what does this mean for retailers? Has the internet killed shopping, the way it so

20 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

mercilessly dealt to CDs and is now savaging TV and DVDs? James Gilbert, director of Australasian ecommerce provider Solutionists, doesn’t think so. Firstly, he says there are some products that just don’t work online such as the $2 Shop. Secondly, retailers have a unique insight into what their local customers really want and can use this knowledge to create products and services under their own brand that uniquely satisfy the requirements of their customer group.

Social media is an integral part of online shopping with 34 percent of shoppers following an online shopping site on Facebook. This is something Kowtow has noticed. “I think one of the most potent ways of advertising is through Facebook and Twitter — it’s just huge,” Piatek says. “You really do notice the power of it. If we have a sale, or new stock has arrived, and we put that on the website then you can really see the number of online sales increasing that day.”

“For retailers who take this own brand approach, suddenly the world of internet shopping becomes an opportunity instead of a However, because Kowtow sells loose fitting garments, Piatek doesn’t think everyone threat,” Gilbert says. in the fashion industry has as much online He warns that it is equally important your success as her. Part of the thrill of shopping is online offering is delivered at a world-class trying numerous things on, and making sure standard, in order to remain competitive in a they fit properly. global market. “The return on investment figures for many of “A company with dresses and tailored clothing — well, you do need to try it on. And it’s just our clients shows that retailers could expect that much harder to click the pay button on to recoup their full ecommerce investment within six months of launch. While the cost of the internet when it’s $500 dollars. A baggy T-shirt for $100 is different.” setting up an enterprise level webstore can be significant, it is nothing when compared to that of a physical store — with much lower overheads, and a much bigger audience.”

Twice as much

Wellington entrepreneur Goisha Piatek agrees. Her company Kowtow sells boutique fair trade and organic clothing. “We got our online store revamped in September last year and the month we did that our sales doubled. How easy a site is to navigate is so important. We get sales every day from online.”

Physical appeal Newmarket Business Association head Ashley Church agrees that there are some things about the physical shopping experience that still appeal to Kiwis and we shouldn’t be moving out of shops just yet. “Kiwis are innately pragmatic people who see the internet as simply another part of the overall shopping experience. We like the convenience of the internet for ‘simple’ purchases — but we also recognise that it has its limitations.”

While Kowtow has stockists around the country and in Australia and Japan, Piatek says He cites immediacy, safety, personal service online retail sales are “huge”. and ‘the experience’ of in-store shopping “We sell causal garments so once people as reasons why people will be in no hurry know their size they can re-order off our to replace it completely with the internet online store.” anytime soon.

News | Events Diary Events Diary — What’s Happening on the Business and entertainment Fronts November

Sales Skills — Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce

This course will give you the knowledge and a set of sales skills to succeed in sales Many people in all fields of selling miss important sales opportunities because they lack sales skills and find it hard to close the sale. To register, visit www.cecc.org.nz Tuesday

November

Fight for Christchurch — Charity Event

This will be a night of glitz and glam, when the who’s who of Christchurch business Friday leaders, local politicians and sporting personalities attend the Fight for Youth. Fine wine and food will be on offer as well as entertainment by local performers, singers and dancers. www. fightforchristchurch.co.nz November

Leading the Work Group – NZIM Southern

Participants will gain the appropriate skills and confidence to identify, describe and analyse problems within a team. Learn how to create effective legal solutions to problems in the team and understand the formal process for performance improvement, workplace discipline and personal grievance complaints. To register, visit www.nzimsouthern.co.nz Tuesday

december

If meeting deadlines is hard for you, learn how to work smarter and harder — not Friday longer. This course will teach you how to overcome procrastination, establish priorities and deal with interruptions and distractions. To register, visit www.nzimsouthern.co.nz december

Ethics Update – New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants

This course will be given by NZICA’s director Tuesday of professional support Tom Davies. He will deal with typical conflict of interest, independence and confidentiality situations practitioners have to deal with. He will discuss areas where clients need to be advised to seek their own independent advice, and will also provide a general refresher on NZICA requirements. To register, visit www.nzica.com december

HSNO Approved Handler Training — Canterbury Manufacturers Association

If your organisation uses or stores hazardous substances in excess of the trigger quantity, the HSNO Act requires that you must have an approved handler available at all times to offer advice, training, or assistance to those using or handling the substances. To register, visit www.cma.org.nz Wednesday

GST Workshop — IRD Christchurch

This workshop is a hands-on interactive session where you learn to complete a mock Thursday cashbook and GST return. It is ideal for sole traders, partnerships and other small businesses. It covers GST registration, record keeping and GST filing (online and manual) and payment. To register, visit www.ird.govt.nz

Effective Use of Time — NZIM Southern

december

Export Canterbury Breakfast — Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce

Wednesday

The final Export Canterbury Breakfast of the year. This series features presentations from internationally successful New Zealand business people. To register, visit www.cecc.org.nz

december

Saturday

december

A Cantabrian Christmas — Christchurch Symphony Orchestra With traditional favourites and New Zealand flavour this is a perfect way to start your festive season. Visit www.cso.co.nz

Essential Training for Health and Safety Representatives (Stage 1) — Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce

Monday

This two day course is approved under the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 for training health and safety representatives and offers an alternative to union-based training. To register, visit www.cecc.org.nz december

Rhythm and Alps — Music Festival

Taking its award-winning festival down south, Rhythm and Vines is holding a new Wednesday sister festival in Canterbury this December. The new festival, Rhythm and Alps, will be held over two days at Terrace Downs resort. For more information, visit www.rhythmandalps.co.nz january

Stamp & Postcard Exhibition — Christchurch (NZ) Philatelic Society

The Christchurch (NZ) Philatelic Society is celebrating its 100 years with a stamp and postcard exhibit. Of interest will be postcard exhibits showing Christchurch before the earthquakes. For more information, visit www.cps.gen.nz Saturday

If you would like to feature a business related event in this diary, email newsroom@academy.net.nz at least two months before the date of the event.

Managing risk in a challenging environment During the last few years the ability and willingness for people to pay debts has changed. It is necessary to have systems and processes to support both the extensions of credit and the management of outstandings in your business. Baycorp’s South Island regional manager Greg Davey says the standard term to settle a business debt is now 46 days — two weeks longer than the standard 30 day term. “Cash is king and you are competing against others to be paid that elusive dollar. That’s why good credit management is having some rules, guidelines or policies and sticking to them.” Firstly, Davey says, you must know your customer. “Establish the people you are dealing with have the correct authority to deal with your business. Obtain background information — if a company, undertake a companies office check to further establish who the directors and shareholders are by using www.companies.govt.nz. “You can also obtain trade references and contacts and obtain permission to undertake and perform a credit check.” Davey says it is crucial to establish the threshold of where you are comfortable to not have guarantees for limited liability companies — if any. “Where no guarantees will be given, consider seriously the ramification to your business if payment is not received.”

Set some ground rules ■ Establish the way that you will conduct business and what will happen for non payment. ■ Ensure Terms of Trade provide benefits in the collection process including use of PPSR — Personal Property Security Register, charging of interest and on charging of collection agency costs and the legal process. They can cover many other things, including levels of deposit and payment term. It should include how to deal with disputes or issues regarding the product or service supplied.

It can even send its specially trained field agents or do legal action on a client’s behalf. Baycorp’s attitude is not about hounding debtors but about finding a way to make repayments through good communication. “For every six months you hang onto the debt, the recovery declines by 50 percent,” Davey says. “Just remember from the outset that not every sale is a good sale — you have to be paid! If in doubt upfront, investigate further. If you need assistance in collecting monies owed to your business call us today.”

■ Establish a Credit Policy that sets the rules to follow when people don’t pay and apply it all the time — not just for new customers or people you don’t like. Davey says businesses must know the following: I will stop credit at ??? days. I will send a letter at ??? and ??? days. I will make a phone call at ??? and ??? day(s) If this doesn’t collect the cash I will give it to a collection agency at ??? days overdue. If your business is suffering because you are not being paid what you are owed, Baycorp is here to help you in any way it can with credit management and debt recovery.

Greg Davey SI Regional Manager T (03) 345 7200 M 027 5592595

Bev Wall Business Manager T (03) 345 7203 M 027 2710583

Baycorp ■ PO Box 1343 Christchurch 8140 ■ T 0800 BAYCORP (0800 229 267) ■ www.baycorp.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 21

News | Travel

Only in

By Bridget Gourlay

New York City. Those three words conjure up images of a breathtaking skyline, the Empire State Building and the Sex and the City girls strutting along Fifth Avenue in $500 high heels. But, as I found out, it’s the neighbourhoods that really give this immigrant city its charm. Take Chinatown and Little Italy, which stand side by side. Both have been home to immigrants for decades, and both were relatively untouched by the police, left to the ruling clans to organise everything from business to law and order. I was there on Christmas Day. Little Italy was the most ridiculously over-decorated place I’ve ever seen. Enormous wreaths covered every door and restaurants were resplendent in red, gold and holly. All restaurants and apartments were firmly shut up, as everyone was at Mass, but peeking in the windows you could see six foot tall angel statues and nativity scenes crammed in every corner inside. But cross the road into Chinatown and it’s like entering another world. Despite the below freezing temperatures, an inner city park is filled with elderly men playing mah-jong and practising Tai-Chi. All the shops have Chinese letters in large print, with the occasional sloppy translation into English below it. It’s hard to believe you’re in the West, let alone in an English-speaking country, until you hear the thick Manhattan accents of the Chinese faces clearly born and bred in America. But the Chinatown/Little Italy area is also home to pockets of other ethnicities. Within a twenty minute walk, my friend and I gawked at a perfectly preserved 19th century synagogue, a Ukrainian Church, a Filipino Church, a couple of Buddhist temples and finally an ugly 1960s building, containing the bizarrely named Beth Israel Chinese Church of God. If there is such a thing as a Chinese Jewish Christian, they could only exist in New York. The infamous immigrant slums of the 18th and 19th centuries, where large families festered in small apartments, were pulled down years ago, but stark images of their lives can be seen at the Museum of New York. You’ve got to wonder how desperate the starvation was in Ireland or how cruel the pogroms of Russia for so many to sail miles and miles to live in dire poverty half a world away. But they did. And many continue to. Illegal Mexican immigrants are everywhere in the city, I am told by a fiery Catholic peaceworker. Although not as prevalent as the southern border states, they are often the

Business travel p New Zealand and the United States have a close trading relationship. In 2010, New Zealand exported more than $3.7 billion worth of merchandise to the US — largely beef, dairy, sheep meat and wine.

p During the same period New Zealand imported more than NZ$4.3 billion worth of merchandise. Aircrafts were top of the list, followed by aircraft parts, turbo jets, medical or veterinary instruments and motor vehicles.

p The US is New Zealand’s second largest source and destination of foreign direct investment (FDI) after Australia. In terms of tourism, it’s also New Zealand’s third largest market in visitor arrivals and expenditure, coming in after Australia and the United Kingdom.

kitchen hands in restaurants, the sign-holders on the streets, or the rubbish-collectors and street cleaners during the night. They don’t earn minimum wage, he tells me. They often have to pay their employer from their measly salary to live in whatever flea-infested accommodation he provides.

22 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Today’s immigrants and refugees have gone about creating ethnic enclaves just as vibrant as the waves of immigrants before them. Like Le Petit Senegal, in Harlem. It’s home to the recent and increasing waves of people escaping the war torn region, opening West African shops, restaurants and cafés. Throughout the block, it’s possible to hear French and see people wearing warm duffel coats over brightly coloured African dresses.

Bohemian delights But the neighbourhoods aren’t just shaped by ethnicity. Soho and Tribeca offer Bohemian delights. The wrought iron former factories and workshops were abandoned until the 1970s when they were turned into lofts by artists. Today it keeps its alternative feel, with little boutiques, art galleries and restaurants, but is really now a shopping mecca. Expensive labels such as Prada and Marc Jacobs as well as chain stores like H&M occupy multi-storey shops in Soho. Tribeca is no longer a haven for poor artists, these rescued lofts with their wide windows and natural light attract only the commercially successful — as the rents are some of the priciest in Manhattan. Another neighbourhood well worth exploring is the Upper East Side. Home to some of the richest people on earth, these beautiful historic apartment buildings bordering

Central Park are carefully guarded by doormen in crisp jackets. They escort women in fur coats and men in Armani suits in and out of waiting limos. It’s wealth on a scale we don’t see in New Zealand — this really is a world of immense privilege, where people are waited on by drivers, nannies, butlers and maids. One of the more hilarious aspects is finding the entrance for the apartment staff, usually down a side street a good hundred metres away. But while the neighbourhoods offer charm and diversity, don’t discount the tourist trail. The Empire State building really does offer insane views, Central Park is an oasis of calm, and Times Square is as gaudy and noisy and overwhelming as it looks in photos. If theatre doesn’t spin your wheels, the several story tall Pop Tart World, Hershy’s World and M’n’M World, selling elephantine packets of chocolate will. Lit up with flashing neon signs, the entrances employ mascots dressed as their chocolate bars to wave you in. This can only be described as capitalism on crack. And my own Sex and the City moment happened. I met Mr Big. Well, actually the actor that plays him walked past me while I was stuffing my face with a Dunkin’ Donut. Not my best look. But it doesn’t matter. I’ll be back.

News | Lifestyles 4 U

lifestyles

a place in the sun

not just toast

Santorini

Bodum Slotless Toaster

Fantastic, fabulous, unforgettable Santorini deserves all the superlatives it gets. Every traveller succumbs to the beauty of this surreal, postcard landscape. Santorini is a relic of what was probably the biggest volcanic eruption in recorded history.

This is the trendy slotless toaster that can toast any type of bread, regardless of its thickness. Like the company’s conventional toasters this model is available in eight different stylish colors but has a stainless steel flatbed cooktop to toast unfriendly items like croissants, baguettes and leftover pizza slices. There’s a simple dial allowing you to specify the level of browning, and when not in use the flatbed toaster can be stored on its side, freeing up counter space.

If you want to experience the full dramatic impact of Santorini it’s worth arriving by a slower ferry with open decks, rather than by enclosed catamaran or hydrofoil. Santorini is famous for its spectacular sunsets. The village of Oia on the northern tip of the island is a hugely popular sunset viewing site because there is an uninterrupted view of the sun as it finally sinks below the horizon. Further south the last of the setting sun can be obscured by the islands of Nea Kameni and Thirasia. Santorini has a wide variety of accommodation to choose from. Many are nestled and built in high among the cliff tops. Spiliotica Villas offers stunning views down over the ocean. Check out: www.avatonresort.com and www.anastasisapartments.com

top drop Mt Difficulty Target Riesling 2011 With its founding vineyard established in 1992, Mt Difficulty is one of the most respected wineries in the Central Otago region of New Zealand’s rugged South Island. Floral and ripe citrus notes compete in the aroma of this riesling. A moderate amount of residual sugar has been retained to balance the slightly lower acidity from a warmer season. This wine will richly reward those who can cellar it.

superb sounds Philips Fidelio Primo DS9000 Phillips Fidelio Primo is the gateway to everything you hold precious about music. Built with premium components and natural wood, it unleashes full fidelity from your iPhone/iPod, offering an authentic sound experience true to the original. With a curved back for better sound, the clean lines and sensuality of the curved back cover not only looks fabulous – it also creates a more effective structure for acoustics. Carefully designed, the curve increases the stiffness of the speaker cabinet, dramatically reducing internal resonance and resulting in more precise and natural sound reproduction. You get to enjoy both lovely looking speakers and a sensational sound. RRP: $699 Available: Noel Leeming

RRP: $89.95 Available: www.bodum.com

finding flavour Vinturi wine aerator Wine which has been allowed to breathe tastes better. As wine breathes, it opens up, and releases its intended aromas and flavours. Traditionally, decanters were used to aerate wine. However, decanting is time consuming, cumbersome, and inconvenient. Vinturi’s patented design delivers perfect aeration in the time it takes to pour a glass. Simply hold Vinturi over a glass and pour the wine. It draws in and mixes the proper amount of air for the right amount of time, allowing your wine to breathe instantly. You’ll notice a better bouquet, enhanced flavour and smoother finish. Red and white wine aerators are available. RRP: $81 Available: www.newzealandvinturi.co.nz and www.brightidea.co.nz

RRP: $25.95 Available from: Wine stores/supermarkets/restaurants

best foot forward Andrea Biani Loren shoes These shoes from Andrea Biani are the must have shoe of the season. Bold, bright and just plain gorgeous! So get ready for a night out in these peep toe style heels with a platform for comfort and a strap around the ankle so you can dance the night away. Colours available include Cobalt or Black Suede RRP: $179.90 Available: Andrea Biani stores and online at www.andreabianishop.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 23

Editorial Special | Office Temptations

Theseven deadly Whether it’s the temptation to surf the net instead of finishing your report, do some “creative” accounting, or a desire of a more tangible nature — the melting brown eyes of the new receptionist, for example — workplaces can be awash with sin. The biblical seven deadly sins — Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Envy and Pride — rear their heads in the office. Here’s the Canterbury Today guide to the Seven Deadly Sins of the Workplace, and how to avoid sampling forbidden fruit.

Wrath

The sin: Losing your temper and lashing out in anger at a colleague/ junior/boss/the wall. We all make mistakes and how management deals with them is crucial to running a good business. It may be tempting to go Old Testament and scream hellfire and damnation at a newbie when they lose you a sale or mess up an order, but choosing the path of peace and love often brings better results. That’s something high-flying six-figure-earning advertising executive Michael Gates Gill learned the hard way. In his memoir How Starbucks Changed My Life, he writes about how he found himself fired, divorced, diagnosed with a brain tumour and virtually broke in his late 50s. Gill reflects on his business career as he serves coffee and cleans the toilets at Starbucks, remembering the times he yelled at and fired his juniors instead of supporting them. Once he fired an inexperienced young woman for making a rookie mistake, and he often delighted in telling employees they would have to work the weekend. Gates realised none of these approaches worked at all. They drove away talent and ruined people’s self-esteem, instead of creating quality loyal employees. The salvation: Reigning in the anger doesn’t mean you have to grow dreadlocks, hold hands and sing Kumbaya. But taking a constructive approach to errors means your employees will think you walk on water — earning you their trust, respect and loyalty.

Greed

The sin: Taking what you shouldn’t. Enron. This single, short word conjures up the image of a bubble of corporate greed bursting spectacularly. The giant Texan company used a combination of accounting loopholes and dangerously corrupt financial reporting to hide billions in debt from failed deals and projects. It resulted in the whole company going bankrupt, several of the top dogs serving time in prison and thousands of people losing their jobs. Even in little New Zealand we see headlines of businesses failing and employees winding up in court because someone has helped themselves to company safe. Not all greed results in media maulings and court trials of course. There’s the more surreptitious kind. In a tight economy, employees aren’t going to jump ship as easily, so bosses can get away with giving themselves huge salaries and not financially acknowledging the hard work of their best staff. But the staff will quietly note the flash new Mercedes, or that thousand dollar fountain pen. When a better offer comes along, even if the company decides to match or beat it, don’t be surprised if your best people resign. Then your penance will be finding another superstar and spending the time (and money) on training them. The salvation: Investing the money earned back into the business, and not on your new yacht, will pay out in the long term with highly skilled staff and systems making the company a long term success. And for goodness sake, reward your staff. 24 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Sloth

The sin: Probably the most self explanatory sin when it comes to not just professional life, but anything and everything. Sloth — the avoidance of physical work or a sluggishness of soul — is just plain old fashioned laziness. The trouble is, our entire way of life now pays homage to slothfulness. What the industrial revolution started, the technological era is finishing off by inventing ways for us to do less and oh boy, has the concept ever taken off. Just compare obesity rates in the western world today to a century ago. And look no further than your sofa for further evidence — it’s sitting right there — the remote control. OK, so it might not be sinful, but it sure is slothful. With self help books called The Lazy Way To Success or the ultimate machine for the super sloth — the Segway, designed specifically to eliminate the need to walk short distances, this entire era has dedicated itself to finding ways to make life less energetic. Even exercise has fallen prey to the curious notion that less is more with odd looking machines advocating easier exercise. The bad news is, there are no shortcuts to success. Do you think that babe’s perfectly toned butt on the ‘buns of steel’ infomercial found its perfect form flopping around on the sofa with a couple of cursory reps done twice a week? Not even — that devastating derriere was developed during rigorous sessions of sweat, pain and persistence. It’s said the lazy person falls prey to poverty and it’s literally true — if you can’t read a balance sheet for yourself then you’ve surrendered financial control of you company to your accountant. If you’re unprepared to do your own job through lack of planning or research, you’ll impact everyone around you — especially if you have a leadership role. The salvation: Getting lazy can be caused by a lack of motivation. So start setting goals. Make lists of what you want to achieve in the long term, and the write down what you need to achieve on a monthly and weekly basis and get going at work, home and play — it will pay off.

Editorial Special | Office Temptations

workplace sins Pride

The sin: Labelled as the sin from which all others arise, pride, or vanity, is the excessive belief in one’s own abilities and it interferes with, well pretty much everything. Now we’re not talking about taking pride in what you do; in this instance read ‘pride’ as being vain and/ or arrogant. This sin manifests in business in many forms. It’s arguably best demonstrated by the arrogant executive unwilling to listen to feedback from staff or customers. Also know as hubris, pride lives and thrives in the superiority of the leadership, and hence a company’s culture. Take the succession of failed finance companies who ignored the rules for quick profits and paid the ultimate price; failed companies and court dates. They’re a great example of pride in business gone rampant. The leaders were so filled with hubris they thought themselves untouchable, above the laws of any land. All of this behaviour can be tracked back to vanity, arrogance and pride — it’s the original sin. Pride in business is not the same as doing a great job and being well satisfied. When we do a really great job and we have a measure of wisdom, there is an absence of arrogance. There simply is gratitude. Great sportspeople we admire demonstrate this characteristic. The salvation: There is an infinitesimally thin line between confidence and arrogance, so remember the age old saying ‘pride comes before a fall’ and instead err on the side of humility.

Lust

The sin: Desperately lusting after a co-worker. An inordinate craving for a colleague, boss or employee. Work can be a dangerous place. I’m not talking about breathing in the fumes from the photocopier or the scalding hot coffee from the coffee machine. I’m talking about the sexual current that can flow through the office. According to all the latest statistics, the workplace has become the number one place for people to form a relationship, engaging in infidelity or to simply have a brief hook-up. Assuming you work in a relatively modern environment, it brings us into close regular contact with members of the opposite sex. If you find yourself working alongside some stunning creature, even if you’re happily attached, you can find yourself thinking unhealthy thoughts. So get your mind out of the gutter — a little attraction is healthy but obsessing over a specific co-worker can seriously damage your career. Office romances are not illegal. However, they can lead to situations that are illegal and can expose the parties involved, their supervisors and the corporation to a great deal of liability. Lust between people in the workplace can easily escalate into sexual harassment when there is any power differential between the parties. Even the perception that sexual favours are being traded for job security, compensation, promotions can trigger complaints and lawsuits, not just from the parties involved, but from others who might feel they are impacted by the unfair treatment. Many CEOs, politicians, corporations, professionals, clerics have learned the hard way that lust in the workplace can bring down empires and destroy lives. The salvation: No matter how strong your desire is for someone in the work place; it’s wise to think of your intentions instead of acting on them. Think of the long-term effect this could have on your job — is that one night stand, confession of undying love, sneaky affair really worth it? If so be prepared for the consequences.

Envy

The sin: The green eyed monster. Allowing yourself to be overly envious of others in the workplace. This can sabotage your self-esteem, which is one vital characteristic every successful business person shares. As much as we hate to admit it, we’ve all been jealous of someone else at one time or another. We hate to admit it because the emotion we feel is a deep, dark and unsettling feeling. Jealousy is the surface lesion that hints at the real wound — a sense of personal loss, a lowering of self-esteem and, at times, a feeling of self-criticism. These deeper emotions can seep out in the form of anger and they can be tough to deal with in the workplace, where there is competition for rewards and opportunities. Getting jealous when co-workers are recognised for achievements or spending an inordinate amount of time fixated on what you don’t have rather than what you do will foster a bad attitude and negative overall demeanour. German philosopher Immanuel Kant once said that envy “disciplines us to see our own good overshadowed by the good of others”. Everyone can get jealous. A little jealousy can push you to work harder, but too much jealousy can cause a person to sabotage the overall success of their company. Remember your co-workers are part of your team. An achievement by one should be a win for everyone. The salvation: Rather than being envious, let the accomplishments of others become motivational fuel for your fire in working toward your own successes.

Gluttony

The sin: Many individuals move up the corporate ladder so fast that they actually end up failing as a consequence. More isn’t always better — especially if you’re not ready for the challenge at hand. Every workplace has at least one gluttonous team member — someone who takes on way more than they can chew! Gluttony is the over-indulgence in things. While it is commonly used with regard to food, it can be over-indulgence in anything. Gluttony is closely related to greed and may be inseparable. Not knowing how to delegate or when to ask for help can be an easy trait in the work place, no one wants to seem like their failing. It may seem like a good idea to play the hero. After all the more important tasks you undertake the more valuable you will seem to your superiors, right? Not always. If those tasks are not done correctly, or on time, this kind of behaviour can be very damaging. Learn how to share work with others and admit when you have taken on too much. It’s important to ensure that you are not only professionally ready to take on a new and bigger challenge, for which expectations are equally bigger, but also that your personal life is ready for the new demands and strains to be placed upon it. The salvation: Achieving career success also includes maintaining a life balance, and a misplaced professional desire can create a backlash both at home and among peers. Learn how to delegate at work, and ask for help when needed. Don’t see this as admitting defeat; see it as a way of working and communicating successfully with co-workers. www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 25

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Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Taking stock:

Remembering

&rebuilding

It’s hard to believe that only this time a year ago, when the weather was getting really warm and people were planning their Christmas holidays, that we still had our city. The September 4 earthquake had rocked us. Many of us dealt with burst pipes and smashed windows, which local tradesmen worked around the clock to restore. As the summer months ticked on, scaffolding was everywhere as building were repaired or pulled down. Painters and plasterers were hard at work fixing the cracks the earthquake had caused. Some members of the business community had lost their buildings and were looking to start again somewhere else, but for the most part we were looking towards a bright future. An earthquake with only a bit of damage and no fatalities meant a shot in the arm for the construction and trades industry, which had been struggling with the hit the global economic crisis dealt them. Then came February 22, the day we’ll never forget. Again, immediately after the devastating earthquake, local tradespeople were out fixing homes. They worked tirelessly to make them liveable, despite the constant aftershocks, their personal grief and the fact that many were still waiting to be paid for their September work.

Backbone of economy SMEs have long been the backbone of the New Zealand economy — making up 97 percent of our businesses, 31 percent of all employment and 38 percent of GDP. Christchurch SME tradestaff have suffered the earthquakes as part of the community, facing the same trauma we all have with broken houses, broken streets and new offices. For more than a year, they have waited for the rebuild to begin, so they can get to work and pay their staff. However, there are grave fears for the future of the SMEs. When the rebuild takes place, there will be an enormous amount of work that needs to be done. The industry is concerned that instead of training skilled Kiwi apprentices, overseas workers will come in droves. There’s also fear that unskilled workers will do poor quality work, limiting our goal of an aspirational, world class city. One of the gravest fears is that SMEs will get cut out of the equation altogether, with all the work going instead to large companies. This will mean that the local SME — despite their skill levels, quality and experience — will be written out of the equation.

Realising potential However, there’s also a lot of potential. The rebuild offers us a chance to truly build a city for our time, one that can withstand strong earthquakes, but is also attractive, green and well thought-out. That’s why resources such as steel and timber are the new buzzwords — they can be durable, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing.

Just a small sample of the earthquake toll roll-call… some may be salvaged, some replicated and others are lost forever… 28 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Right from September 4, 2010, we have tried to see the silver lining. Even within days of the devastating February earthquake, the groundswell was to look to the positive and pick up the opportunity to craft a city of the future out of the chaos. It’s now up to us to see that the city is rebuilt seismically strong, sustainable and beautiful, with the local SMEs leading the way.

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

When the rebuild happens, the key thing is making sure we’ve got the right capability and skills.

Backing the builders It’s been well over a year since Cantabrians were first ripped from sleep in the early hours of September 4. Within a few days it was revealed that no one had been killed, only a few people injured and the city immediately sprang into action, looking to the future.

The building industry began to prepare itself for a much needed shot in the arm as a number of affected buildings were rebuilt and repaired. The subsequent aftershocks — including the serious jolt on Boxing Day — niggled on, but plans were in motion and confidence was high. Then came February 22, the drizzly summer day when the city changed forever. Aftershocks like the couple on June 13 have continued to shake the region. But (crossed

fingers) Mother Nature seems to have cut us a break. The region is seismically settling down and plans are under way once more for the rebuilt. However, this waiting game coupled with a recession that has hit the construction sector brutally has caused on going problems for the building industry. Registered Master Builders Federation CEO Warwick Quinn says the residential rebuild will be happening after Christmas, but the commercial inner-city rebuild may not begin

Warwick Quinn Registered Master Builders Federation of NZ Inc

until later next year and into 2013. This is because the findings of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into building failure will need to be taken into account and planning and development takes a lot longer for commercial projects. As construction is currently at the lowest point it has been at in living memory, the rebuild will mean sweet relief for builders, but Quinn says it won’t be without problems. Feature continues on next page

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 29

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

The Master Build

Guarantee

Whether building a new home or renovating — ask your builder for the Master Build Guarantee. The Master Build Guarantee covers residential building work with a contract price of $25,000 and over and covers full-contract, labour-only and managed labour-only work carried out by a Registered Master Builder. Work by subcontractors, as well as materials and rot are covered, but conditions apply. It is important to note that the Guarantee is not automatic upon hiring a Registered Master Builder — you must complete the documentation with your builder and ensure that it is sent through to Master Build Services.

Why choose a Master Build Guarantee? This guarantee will protect you against loss of deposit, non-completion, defective workmanship, rot and structural defects, or if your builder is unable or unwilling to put things right. The Master Build Guarantees give you added peace of mind just in case things end up out of your control.

How do you apply?

While I appreciate there will be a need to import expertise and that takes time, the first port of call must be the existing skillbase in Christchurch, then the South Island, then New Zealand before we look offshore. |

Warwick Quinn Registered Master Builders Federation of NZ Inc

“We can all see in six months’ time it will be busier, although we’ve thought this for awhile! And it’s not just tradestaff that may be needed but professional engineers, architects, quality surveyors, foreman, project managers — a range of jobs really. “When the rebuild happens, the key thing is making sure we’ve got the right capability and skills. Because of three years of poor building conditions there has been no work for apprentices to learn on and apprenticeship numbers have fallen significantly, but qualified builders will be greatly needed for the next 10 years.

Your Registered Master Builder will offer you a Master Build Guarantee. If they don’t, then ask for one. The Application Form must be detached from the Guarantee Agreement and completed and signed by you and the builder. The builder must then send the form to Master Build Services for approval.

“All trades tend to be in this boat — we’ve all got similar issues with no work and the need for skills. So we’re working with the other Master Trade organisations and training organisations to get enough people into the trade system now — we really can’t afford to wait.”

How do you know if you are covered?

International trades people are being recruited to work on the rebuild, something Quinn is not entirely happy with.

Once approved, Master Build Services will send you an acceptance letter (usually within 14 days). Make sure you keep this and the Guarantee document on file for future reference. If you do not hear from Master Build Services within 14 working days, or have any additional queries, please call 0800 269 119. Make sure you read the information and the Terms and Conditions of the Guarantee document carefully. If you have any queries either discuss them with your builder or phone Master Build Services on 0800 269 119. When the building work is finished, both you and your builder need to sign a completion form and forward it to Master Build Services. This ensures that the ongoing cover once the building project is finished will be provided.

What if things go wrong? If you think there’s a problem with the work, contact Master Build Services before making any further payments to your builder. The Guarantees won’t cover you for any significant defect or incomplete work known to you at the time of final payment, or possession of the dwelling.

30 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“While I appreciate there will be a need to import expertise and that takes time, the first port of call must be the existing skillbase in Christchurch, then the South Island, then New Zealand before we look offshore. “I would really like to see the work going to local builders first — they are the ones struggling the most, they need the ability to get on their feet. They are in Christchurch for the long haul, and all efforts must go into their recovery.”

Re-certification of members occurs regularly, with checks on financial viability and their workmanship. And for further peace of mind for Registered Master Builder clients, there are a number of guarantees offered (see sidebar). All this cuts down the possibility of unskilled people entering the market — those who do a bad job, take the money and leave – profiting from the misery of others. It also means that work won’t go to well-meaning but simply not qualified contractors. However, Quinn says a new law should also put paid to that.

“The introduction of licenseing next year should help reduce the risk of this. The Government must make sure that companies bringing in people from overseas can get It’s not just Christchurch where skilled those immigrants licensed, because if we’re tradespeople such as builders may be needed. short of labour and skills there’s a risk that we With the leaky homes repairs happening bring in the wrong skills, but licenseing should in Auckland and a general undersupply of fix that.” housing there, Christchurch and Auckland look For businesses with the insurance money, or like they might be a hive of building industry those who have nearly been paid it, Quinn activity while the other cities might remain has some words of advice. quite flat for longer.

The other important aspect of the rebuild is that it must be done to extremely high standards, so a ‘leaky homes’ equivalent situation does not occur. Using a Registered Master Builder however, will give peace of mind.

“Moving from one community to another is a big step. However while people are working through those issues they can be exploring what they need to do to be ready when the time eventually comes to make that move; such as looking at what style and design of house they want, options regarding sections, talking with building companies about cost and time, obtaining plans and drawings and understanding the dollars involved etc. “Hopefully, that will lessen the chances of getting stuck in the bottleneck of consents and mean people will get available trades people when they need them!”

That’s because becoming a Registered Master Builder is a lengthy process — building experience, trade or professional qualifications and practical management experience are all assessed. Workmanship is inspected and previous clients contacted, to ensure the applicant’s work is of a high standard and has satisfied clients’ expectations.

Registered Master Builders Federation of NZ Inc PO Box 1796 Level 6, 234 Wakefield Street Wellington T (04) 385 8999 F (04) 385 8995 E mbfinfo@masterbuilder.org.nz

“If this eventuates we might see internal migration within the country until construction in other cities recovers. This may come with its own challenges, particularly in Christchurch if it has a large influx of people — where will all these people live? That will be something that will need to be addressed as well.”

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives reasons to choose a

Sparky skills in

demand

It’s the Government, he says, that needs to “step up” and address the problem. “From my point of view the Government needs to either put in place a short term solution for insurance or do projects it can control. It could rebuild government buildings — schools and courts for example.

Registered Master Electrician

Strength through association

The Electrical Contractors Association of New Zealand is recognised as the major electrical contracting trade association in New Zealand. ECANZ has a membership of 1400 businesses and offers its members service, information and support.

Workmanship Guaranteed

ECANZ has the MASTERelectricians brand for guaranteed workmanship. MASTERelectrician members of ECANZ offer a workmanship guarantee on domestic work and should problems arise ECANZ will always seek to resolve issues in a fair and reasonable manner.

The electrician industry is stuck in a supply and demand Catch 22. With the Christchurch rebuild getting under way next year, skilled electricians will be in demand during the next decade. years. However, as work is almost at a standstill now, electricians cannot afford to take on apprentices and train them. The Electrical Contractors Association of New Zealand (ECANZ, or also known as MASTERelectricians) is worried about this situation. CEO Neville Simpson says the industry desperately needs a starting point to get apprentices trained.

MASTERelectricians

A Master Electrician’s ability to make a diagnosis and recommend a solution would not be possible without many years of training and continuing professional development to keep abreast of the latest method and technologies.

4 5

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ECANZ members are quality assured In order to carry out electrical work

“If those rebuilds are done using local companies who train electricians, the work can be done to a high standard, locals will be employed and get paid and apprentices will come through the system.” Currently, when apprentices are trained they have off-job training (classes and study) and on-job training (hands-on work). Simpson suggests this could get a shake-up.

for hire or reward the MASTERelectrician must have a current practicing license as well as completing safety refresher training every two years. ECANZ has a quality assurance programme for its members to meet including a high safety and commercial criterion.

ECANZ owns etco (Electrical Training Company)

Etco employs hundreds of apprentices and trains them off job, while its members train apprentices on the job to ensure the future of the industry. Phone 0800 2753826 today for more details.

The focus for the next few years could be on the off-job side of being an electrician, with the practical component being done when the work appears. “Industry must ensure no ‘dumbing down’… however!” What Simpson wants to avoid is a mass immigration of skilled trade staff from overseas. “When we see notices being distributed at overseas trades fairs, designed to bring in immigrants to New Zealand to do rebuild work — well, we can see some logic in that but we don’t see that as being a primary option. We should look after own, particularly local Christchurch businesses and youth. There are so many youth unemployed; we don’t want them to become disenfranchised. “From our perspective we know how serious this situation is and while the severity has limited what the response has been to date I get the feeling people are getting frustrated. “Market forces aren’t in play, and to say the market will fix what needs to be done is not true. Only the Government can do it,” he says. Feature continues on next page

NHP, the difference speaks for itself. With a new office location offering increased warehousing and stock availability, our team at NHP Christchurch are well positioned to readily support the electrical sectors involved with the city’s rebuilding process. We are committed to accommodating our communities’ immediate and future product needs to ensure they get back on their feet as soon as possible. Visit us at nhp-nz.com or contact your local sales representative on 0800 NHP NHP.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 31

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives « From previous page These issues not only concern Simpson but other tradespeople.

Choosing the

right people

In October, the ECANZ Canterbury and Westlands branches met with other Master trades organisations — members of the Master Plumbers and Master Builders associations to name a few. They will now be a unified and vocal group, lobbying to CERA and PMOs on construction industry issues. The group plans to offer practical and well thought-out solutions to problems the earthquake has presented for affected members.

‘Cowboys’ When the insurance money comes through, Simpson says there will be a bottleneck as there won’t be enough qualified electricians to go around. This could result in people using ‘cowboy operators’ or trying to do the repair work themselves.

for the job

Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers New Zealand is urging Cantabrians to choose their tradesmen carefully.

“If not, then you’d have to be concerned about any implications for your insurance, going forward. In the post-earthquake environment that you’re working in at the moment you’d have to remove any doubt or ability by your insurance company to decline a claim.”

Chief executive Fiona Gavriel says it is imperative that consumers hire a qualified, licensed tradesman to do their earthquake repair work or general work on their homes.

Consumers should always ask to see the tradesman’s licence card, which are issued each year.

“You do need to ensure that you get someone who has a current licence,” she says.

Selecting a registered master plumber, gasfitter or drainlayer provides the customer with a number of benefits.

“There is a concern within the industry about cowboys, but the only thing we can do is educate the public, we need them to know about practicing licenses and if their electrician has one.”

Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers NZ was established in 1901 to support and promote excellence within the industry. It represents more than 60 percent of the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying industry. Master Plumbers is supported by 16 regional associations, which understand local requirements. Choosing a Master Plumber means you are employing a certified and qualified tradesman who has undergone an independent quality assurance review.

Of course, Master Electrician members of ECANZ offer a workmanship guarantee — this is not standard in the industry, but something the organisation chooses to offer to show its commitment to quality and to give customers peace of mind.

Members are committed to continual upskilling and work to exacting standards.

Quake difficulties Gavriel says the earthquakes have had a huge effect on Christchurch trades, with many operators struggling with the Earthquake Commission (EQC) over ongoing payment issues. Immediately after the September and February earthquakes many plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers went out in good faith and worked hard to get their customers’ problems fixed.

“The other thing is, electrical work often comes down to price,” Simpson says. “There’s the Kiwi mentality that ‘I can do it myself and save money.’ The thinking needs to be that this rebuild offers the opportunity to have top-notch houses. Let’s think about what we’re doing and get the best people to do it, think about the safety of your family and the resale value of your property — DIY work or cowboy work will undermine this.” ECANZ Metro Thorndon Building 220 Thorndon Quay PO Box 12-434 Wellington T (04) 494 1540 E admin@ecanz.org.nz www.ecanz.org.nz

“Our organisation has a consumer guarantee, which protects them regarding advance payment and substandard workmanship. All of our members sign up to standards of procedures and operate under a code of practice, which includes consumer satisfaction,” Gavriel says.

“Under the emergency works definition consumers were entitled to have emergency work done up to $2000, which in some cases meant getting new water cylinders,” Gavriel says. “Our members worked very hard in the first few days after the earthquakes, but regrettably some have been caught up in EQC processes and either haven’t been paid or are having their invoices disputed.” Southland’s Scott Nicholson was a medal winner for NZ’s Tool Blacks in the 2011 International WorldSkills competition in London in October. Photo: KM Photos.

32 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Gavriel met recently with the chief executive of the EQC and hopes a resolution will be reached soon.

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Left: One of the Clyne and Bennie fleet, the Christchurch plumbing firm which won Master Plumber of the Year 2010. Below: Good thinking ‘outside of the box’. Basil Martin of Clyne and Bennie sets up emergency hand-wash facilities at a Christchurch police station.

industry. The industry is rigorously regulated to ensure the highest standards of sanitation and safety.

“We are working closely with EQC to develop an agreed schedule of costs, which means we will all know exactly where we stand. This will make doing business in Christchurch much easier in the future and provide more certainty,” Gavriel says.

Priority on trades

The earthquakes have had a big impact on some trade businesses due to additional costings caused by a variety of factors, including increased travel time on poor roads, time spent dealing with the EQC and the need for more office staff to book jobs and deal with increased administration issues.

The national office has been working hard to support its Christchurch regional division. Chief executive Fiona Gavriel says a significant concern in Christchurch is lack of cashflow, caused by a delay in payments from the EQC. For some this means they can’t afford to take on apprentices.

“Then there’s the changing face of Canterbury. We’re going to be offering our members much greater business support in the near future to assist them with operating in this new environment. “We are planning a number of workshops on things like legal and insurance issues relating to the earthquake, strategic planning, dealing with staff, leadership, business systems and finance.

Master Plumbers operates Masterlink, which is currently training 150 apprentices in order to meet the growing demand for qualified tradespeople. “We’re looking at ways to ensure there will be a skilled New Zealand workforce in Christchurch,” Gavriel says. “At the moment, due to cashflow issues, members are reluctant to take on staff, which could mean they end up getting hurt by a skills shortage, but it’s very difficult in this economic environment.”

“For many the changes in Christchurch mean they have to reassess their business model and we want to offer guidance to those who need it,” Gavriel says.

Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers is promoting the use of Canterbury businesses as a priority in the repair and rebuild. “We would like local Canterbury businesses to be

Gavriel says there are huge benefits in joining the association for members, including continued access to industry knowledge and updates. The association offers a wide range of upskilling courses, which can involve face-toface learning, distance learning and online options. “Our members join Master Plumbers because they recognise its value as a quality mark,” Gavriel says.

Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers New Zealand hopes that local Canterbury trades will be the first choice for the repair and rebuild of Christchurch.

“They are backed by the organisation and we manage any complaints on their behalf. They get access to membership benefits and can show they are committed to themselves and the quality of their business.”

used first, and then perhaps businesses from the rest of the South Island and then New Zealand. Then bringing in overseas trades as a last resort,” says Gavriel. “We don’t think bringing in overseas labour should be used to push down rates. That’s not happening yet but we suspect it might. In five or 10 years Canterbury businesses will remain, but the overseas people will have gone.”

Benefits

Gavriel says the standards of plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting in New Zealand is extremely high. “The industry is well regulated in order to relicense, members have to have continuing professional development and be committed to their own business.” Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Inc PO Box 6606 Marion Square Wellington 6141 T (0800) 502 102 F (0800) 762 438 www.masterplumbers.org.nz

Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers New Zealand currently has about 750 member businesses, which make up 60 percent of the Feature continues on next page »

Innovation Quality Health www.foreno.co.nz Free Phone: 0508 FORENO (0508 367 366) Email: sales@foreno.co.nz

4x4aMK Sink Mixer

Proudly supporting Amalgamated Trade Associations www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 33

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Future

NZ Steel is a key supporter of ADNZ. Steel is a light yet durable way for buildings and homes to be rebuilt in a seismically strong way.

form Rebuilding an entire city offers a plethora of opportunities for architects. Christchurch is searching for a way to be like Napier, and rise phoenix-like from the ashes of destruction with a beautiful city. It’s a challenge Architectural Designers New Zealand is passionate about meeting. Jason Higham, the Canterbury/Westland branch president of Architectural Designers New Zealand, and Ian Cumberpatch, the organisation’s board chairperson, answered a few questions for Canterbury Today about the rebuild.

What role will architectural designers be taking on as the rebuild of Christchurch gets under way? “They will be providing professional advice to their clients to ensure that the repairs and rebuilding of their properties that they are entitled to under their insurance contracts, EQC and CERA are completed efficiently and to compliance with the City Plan and Building Code requirements. They will also be providing design advice and inspiration to meet the individual requirements of their clients. Some people will be happy to simply fix up or rebuild what they had, but many will take the opportunity to improve on what they had and will build something quite different.”

What must we get right in the rebuild in order to create a beautiful livable city? “We must respect and acknowledge the heritage of our people and communities, the architectural history of our lost and remaining buildings and be confident to design and rebuild our city to meet the current and future needs of our communities. We must design functional, aesthetically pleasing and economically viable buildings that acknowledge our natural landscape features, weather patterns and our life styles so that we attract investment and occupation that will populate the city and make it a city that people will want to work, live, visit and recreate in.”

What will be the challenges of the rebuild (from your perspective) and how can they be mitigated? “The biggest challenge is growing and maintaining investor confidence in the city through the certainty of a new City Plan that provides a vision for the future that the community supports now. Design guideline principles should be established that provide for innovation in design solutions that allow for flexibility and new thinking that can be proposed and assessed by an urban design panel to allow for a mix of structured and organic growth that can develop over time as investors and owners take up the challenge as we all must to rebuild our city.” ADNZ 49 Sir William Pickering Drive Burnside Christchurch 8053 T 358 0112 F 358 9040 E tellmemore@adnz.org.nz www.adnz.org.nz Feature continues on next page

Sourcing staff for your workforce… Whether you are looking for a job or need workers, Tradestaff is there to help. The year 2011 will go down in history as arguably, Christchurch’s toughest. And one area that’s seen serious disruption has been employment. The good news is, there are professionals who can help — namely the folks at Tradestaff. Tradestaff has helped over 25,000 Kiwis into work over the last 15 years. Tradestaff takes pride in being able to adapt to differing company cultures and to recruit to your specific requirements. The aim is to increase the overall quality of your own workforce, whether it is in providing temporary or casual staffing solutions, or permanent staff members. “We will spend time on your site to ensure we understand your business. We know it is just as important to be supplied with employees who ‘fit’ with your existing staff, as it is to have people with the appropriate skills for the job.” The cost of compliance places huge demands on New Zealand businesses. So Tradestaff’s professional payroll bureau, Your Payroll, was set up to help businesses manage their increasing financial and reporting commitments.

34 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

The all-inclusive service includes processing, reporting and producing secure payroll documentation. As well as electronic filing of PAYE with the Inland Revenue Department, we also deal with Work and Income payments, court-imposed fines and payments, student loans and ACC queries. Founder and managing director Kevin Elder has taken the company from a one-man band in 1996 to a nationwide market leader in only 13 years. Tradestaff has provided staffing solutions to over 6000 New Zealand businesses and employed over 25,000 workers. No matter what your staffing needs may be, Tradestaff has got you covered.

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

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Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Incorporating effective

insulation

If there’s anything positive about the earthquakes that have wrecked havoc on our city over the past year and a half, it’s the opportunity to have a clean slate and start anew.

insulation is covered and every type of business — from manufacturers to installers.

And one of the issues that have always existed in Christchurch is ensuring our homes are warm and dry. Often, buildings are cold even with the heater on or fire going because the insulation of the building is faulty, doesn’t exist or wasn’t installed correctly.

This tough course has made the industry a professional one. “The fitting of insulation is almost more important than the product, if it’s not done well there can be up to a 50 percent failure rate of keeping warmth in houses. The high quality work I’m seeing today compared to what it used to be like is astonishing. It is just miles and miles better.”

With many homes being rebuilt or repaired over the coming months, there comes the opportunity to make them warm and dry — keeping us healthy, saving money on power bills and reducing our impact on the environment. Godfrey Hall is the president of the Insulation Association of New Zealand (IAONZ) says the industry is passionate about this. The IAONZ was set up three years ago to deliver better insulation products and more informed installers. With 75 members around the country, he says almost every type of

36 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“There are no barriers to joining, but when you do join you are signing up for product excellence and training, so once members are in the course if they can’t cut the mustard then they don’t get through,” Hall explains.

The earthquake has been tough on insulation installers as they wait for work. Some companies have gone out of business. IAONZ has put on free courses for its Christchurch members to ease their financial burden. “Normally we charge a fee, but we’ve just made the whole thing free in Christchurch. Keeping Christchurch installers going and giving them moral support is important to us. There are lots of very experienced people in Christchurch,” Hall says.

“Immediately after the earthquake I was so impressed at how many installers were out cleaning up. Of course, there were a thousand heroes in Christchurch, but these people are often ex-builders, they are physically strong and I’ve no doubt they made a big difference. A lot of companies were paying their staff to do clean up work which shows what sort of people they are.” Hall says if insulation is done well, it will be an essential component in making the new Christchurch a cleaner, healthier place to live. “The $30 billion being spent on the new city is a perfect opportunity to lift the game for warm homes. Christchurch has a clean air policy because of its geographical nature and with the intensity of the earthquakes and the subsequent power losses; insulation is even more important for your home.” Insulation Association of New Zealand PO Box 31-717 Milford North Shore City 0741 T 021 571 111 E membership@iaonz.co.nz www.iaonz.co.nz

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

polyester insulation

Beat the cold in winter, and the heat in summer. Creating a better environment in your home InsulPro NOVAtherm ceiling and wall blankets and NOVAfloor underfloor insulation are: • • • • •

100% polyester insulation made using recycled plastic bottles safe and easy to install manufactured in New Zealand guaranteed for 50 years *

To arrange a free visit from an insulation professional to assess your requirements, simply fill in the online enquiry form by going to www.insulpro.co.nz/home The insulation professional will also advise you on the eligibility of your home for the EECA subsidy. Invest wisely for your future in a healthy insulated home.

*subject to correct installation and adequate protection

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 37

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Natural Eco Insulation are award winning specialists in WOOL and other planet friendly insulation. With representation across the North Island we are very pleased to now have a branch in Sydenham, Christchurch. All of our products are sustainable, toxin-free and have great thermal credentials. Ecofleece is made from pure or recylced New Zealand wool and is literally like wrapping your family in a warm woolly blanket.

wool for warm homes

Eco Insulation is an award-winning innovative company behind the use of natural wool in home insulation in New Zealand. It is one of New Zealand’s leaders in the field of environmentally friendly insulation products. Its product range includes: p Ecofleece® is the company’s blanket insulation system, utilising recycled wool. Ecofleece is the company’s most popular blanket insulation system. It comes in a white natural wool or a recycled option. p Ecowool® is 100% loose wool that can be blown into low pitched and hard to reach roof spaces. p Ecotherm® is the 100% polyester blanket system for ceilings and underfloor. p EcoFloor is the underfloor range of 100 percent polyester semi-rigid board.

EarthWool is a new product from Europe that is very cost competitive with other fibreglass products without the chemical binders. No nasty itching if you choose to install yourself or otherwise we have efficient, friendly teams to do the job for you. Call us now for a free no obligation quote and don’t forget to ask about the government subsidies available. You could be eligible for $1800 off the cost of insulating and heating your pre-2000 home. If you have a Community Services Card and Health Issues you may even qualify for FREE insulation.

Eco Insulation are pleased to have opened a branch in Christchurch and proud to be able to help rebuild the city.

p Earthwool is a brand new range of recyled glass product using German innovation in it’s vegetable based binders. Low-irritant in all ways, this is a great product to install and live with. It is also very cost competitive yet environmentally superior. All of the products are assessed by Branz. Wool insulation has outstanding thermal qualities. As an effective humidity controller, wool prevents heat loss condensation and mould in winter while creating a cooler and more pleasant environment in the summer. Eco Insulation also supply and install a quality range of Energy Star-rated heat pumps from Hitachi, Toshiba and Mitsubishi as well as Rinnai Gas Fires and Pellet Burning Fireplaces.

Testimonials “I’d like to congratulate you on the quality of your company’s products and service. As a professional, I have to have confidence in the product I specify, and so do my clients. After using your products in two of my own houses I have complete confidence in specifying them for my clients. I no longer have to accept a compromise between environmental qualities and good performance.” — Lambourne Architects

…

“Eco Insulation is an affordable, easy to use recycled product that fits in with our philosophy of promoting sustainable products.” — Richard Priest Architects

…

“For performance, delivery, price, and especially handling — Ecofleece has been our first and only option for many years. Our clients and builders are very enthusiastic about this highly rated insulation and we are completely satisfied with this product in every respect.” —Tektus Architects

…

“I have installed this product in my own home by myself. It is brilliant to work with and offers superior insulation and value for money!” —M2M Design

…

“The contract work comprised the installation of ceiling insulation, energy saving lamps and water heater cylinder wraps in approximately 500 housing units. ‘The firm carried out the work in a highly professional and cooperative manner, within the contract period and with minimal disruption to the occupants of the housing units.”— North Shore City Council

…

The Christchurch branch is now up and running with Paul Van Der Loo and James Kempthorne doing a great job, getting the office and warehouse ready to help with the rebuild of Christchurch.

Free Phone 0800 400ECO www.ecoinsulation.co.nz Eco Insulation 95 Byron Street, Sydenham Christchurch T 0800 400ECO — Advertising Feature

38 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

www.ecoinsulation.co.nz

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Exploring efficient

options However you want to heat your home, it makes sense to do so as efficiently as possible. With a vast array of options to choose from, the first thing to arm yourself with is information. Both the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority and the New Zealand Home Heating Association can help. They’ve got information and advice aplenty. Whatever you choose, an efficient, clean heating source is the way to go; they produce little or no air pollution and their efficiency means reduced running costs. Various wood burners and pellet burners have been authorised by Environment Canterbury as meeting regional emissions and efficiency criteria, but do note that some authorised wood burners may need resource consent, or might be prohibited in parts of Canterbury.

Efficient wood burners are a very environmentally friendly way to heat your house. Wood is a renewable, carbon-neutral energy source that produces plenty of heat, making it good for heating large spaces. They are one of the lowest cost ways to heat your home, especially if you have access to a cheap wood source. Be aware that firewood has to be dry to burn efficiently, so you’ll need to store it undercover. You’ll also need to get building consent for installation and unless your property is larger than two hectares, you need to use an Environment Canterbury approved wood burner, listed at www.ecan.govt.nz.

Wood pellet burners are a very environmentally friendly way to heat your home, as the pellets come from waste wood and burn very cleanly. They produce a lot of heat, allow you to set the temperature and come with a built-in fan which helps circulate the heat. But be aware that they use a small amount of electricity, so do need some power to run them. Like wood burners, pellet burners require building consent for installation and in areas with air quality issues only authorised burners listed at www.ecan.govt.nz can be installed. Heat pumps are the most efficient way of using electricity to heat your home, so long as

they’re set only to run when you need them. They’re massively user-friendly with built-in timers and thermostats. When choosing a heat pump, look for the Energy Star mark. It gives an energy efficiency rating that is generally awarded to the top 25 percent most energy efficient products by category.

For more information visit:

www.nzhha.co.nz www.ecan.govt.nz www.eeca.co.nz Feature continues on next page

Nulook Enterprise

Nulook Enterprise is proud to support construction firms, builders and architects with the Christchurch Recovery Programme. We are committed to work as part of a cohesive co-operative network to provide only the best in products and services to Christchurch and its people. Nulook Enterprise is a sponsor of the Westpac Business & Community Hub which is open to businesses and community groups affected by the recent Christchurch earthquakes.

Nulook Enterprise is a licensed fabricator of the Nulook range of aluminium joinery offered by NALCO. This gives us access to modern designs that combine elegance with functionality and durability, all at affordable prices. Nulook is a leading brand in commercial, architectural and residential joinery and stands out in the construction industry for its contemporary styling and extensive range.

Unit 5, Enterprise Business Park, 4 O’ Briens Road, Sockburn, Christchurch 03 348 5058 www.nulookenterprise.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 39

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Heating without hassles Warmth is one of human kind’s most fundamental requirements. Having said that, despite climatic evidence to the contrary, we persist in the belief that New Zealand is almost tropical. Traditionally, we have built our homes with little regard to the reality of warming them efficiently through winter months. Since 1978 it has been mandatory to insulate walls, ceilings and under floors, which has resulted in a vast improvement on the drafty uninsulated wooden houses that many of us may have grown up in. During the past two decades, New Zealanders have become increasingly design-conscious and house-proud; this has seen an extensive improvement in homeowners making sure their homes are well insulated and heated. Heat pumps are currently the most efficient form of electric heating/cooling available in New Zealand.

More than 10,000 heating units have been installed in greater Christchurch through the Earthquake Commission’s winter heating programme.

40 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Popular pumps Heat pumps consist of an indoor unit and an exterior unit. Think of a heat pump as a refrigerator working in reverse. They have a network of pipes that contain gas constantly working to expand in one part of the network and compress in another. The gas that is being compressed by the exterior unit increases in temperature and this heat is then pumped inside. The gas is then returned to the outside unit and the process works in reverse, expelling cold air. When the heat pump is used as an airconditioner, the entire process is reversed. Heat pumps are used in all types of resources including air conditioning systems and refrigerators. A heat pump that is correctly sized, installed and used as directed can heat your designated area using less energy than other equivalent electric heaters. This in turn means you save on your electricity bill. Plus, heat pumps benefit our environment. These benefits start at home where the filters in some heat pumps clean the air to remove dust and pollens. They’re also cleaner than other forms of fuel heating; this helps to

reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduces your carbon footprint. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends a minimum internal temperature of 18°C. Below 16°C there is an increased risk of respiratory disease, so keeping your home warm will help keep you healthy. With the rise of the heat pump how can you the consumer get the right heat pump for your home? It can be a long process to decide what heat pump to buy and who would be qualified to install it. That’s where the Climate Control Companies Association (CCCA) comes in.

The CCCA The CCCA is recognised as the main companies association for specialist refrigeration and air conditioning technicians and engineers in New Zealand. The association is devoted to the business betterment of the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. It also promotes companies working in the industry. The CCCA has industry knowledge and business intelligence within its foundations and a strong code of ethics which it employs to support its members, to continually strive for the improvement of the industry. The CCCA is also committed to supporting the objectives of the Institute of Refrigeration Heating Air Conditioning Engineers of NZ (IRHACE) in its efforts to grow the industries technical capabilities through its qualified tradesmen, and works in unity with the IRHACE on an ongoing basis. It promotes the advancement of the education, practice, and technology of refrigeration, heating, ventilation and air conditioning for the benefit of all New Zealanders. Since the September 2010 earthquake the promotion of heat pumps has significantly risen. Christchurch residents, particularly the most vunerable needed to remain warm in winter. From this a programme was created.

EQC programme The Earthquake Commission (EQC) has and appointed Fletcher Construction to help run the winter heating programme.

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

More than 10,000 heating units have been installed in greater Christchurch through the Earthquake Commission’s winter heating programme. Fletcher EQR has installed 7172 heat pumps and repaired or installed nearly 2835 solid-fuel burners. For more information visit:

www.energywise.govt.nz www.ccca.org.nz www.eqc.govt.nz www.eqr.co.nz

right heat pump

As well as choosing an efficient model, here are some other important things to think about:

Climate

Make sure your ceiling and underfloor insulation is sorted first. You’ll be able to buy a smaller heat pump and your home will be cheaper to heat properly.

As the temperature drops, so does the performance of many heat pumps. If you live in a cold area, make sure the unit is sized using the manufacturer’s information on how much heat it can deliver at the average outdoor winter temperature of the area in which you live. A good quality unit, sized and installed correctly, should perform effectively down to minus 15°C.

Quality

Installation

Insulate first

Choose a quality brand from a reputable supplier that offers at least a five-year warranty on parts and labour.

Good installation is fundamental to how well a heat pump performs. Make sure you choose an experienced installer.

Energy rating

Sizing

Look at the energy rating label on the heat pump to help you compare between models. The more stars, the better the energy efficiency of that heat pump.

Make sure it’s sized correctly for the room you want to heat. If it is too small, it will have to work harder and cost you more to run.

Keeping the Heat On Following the quakes in the region, local business has been rocked by further uncertainty in the success of rebuild efforts. Contending with a bitter winter hasn’t made work much easier. It is reassuring then, that against these odds, temperzone, New Zealand’s largest and longest serving airconditioning manufacturer, is exceeding expectations. Not simply a trusted New Zealand brand, temperzone is also directly involved and invested in Christchurch, with its new relocated branch in Casebrook. Manager Tony Hansen and the team have stuck out the quakes, remained in the area and opened in a new premises from which great service is still on hand. In conjunction with Fletcher building, temperzone has been heavily involved in the Winter Heating Programme with the installation of durable, high quality airconditioning and heat pump solutions. Over this busy period some great results have been achieved, without a single complaint coming in from end-users, in fact a few commendations have come though.

“I didn’t realise how cold it often was until I opened the front door.”

Temperzone also recieved the following testimony from fellow Cantabrian, Anton Matthews: “We have found our Hitachi heat pump to be great. We were initially a bit worried that we would see a dramatic change in our power bill, but that certainly hasn’t been the case. We have found it simple and straight forward to use and programme to come on before we get out of bed in the morning and to our surprise it didn’t skip a beat during our most recent dumps of snow here in Ōtautahi. Most importantly, it does a great job of taking the chill off all the bedrooms at night which is what it was designed to do. I would install this product if we ever moved to a new house.” Temperzone’s offerings are two-fold. With a belief in Kiwi-made product for local conditions, ‘temperzone’ air conditioning units are built to last. To compliment the temperzone range of product, Hitachi heat pumps are also distributed and supported by temperzone in New Zealand. Your installer will provide a ‘Comfort Guarantee’ backed by temperzone. Competitively priced, featuring high efficiency, quiet operation, and an unbeatable 6 year warranty, Hitachi heat pumps are being installed across the Canterbury region with great results.

Comfort Guarantee Date

Les Kendall

Governing Director temperzone Ltd.

Your Installer

EA HI H T PU

Temperzone looks forward to assisting more Christchurch residents in regaining some of the home comfort they may have lost or now badly need; this being achieved with the help of its trusted band of temperzone and Hitachi approved installers.

Above: temperzone’s new premises in Christchurch. Above right: examples of temperzone & Hitachi units.

Carey Hedges of North New Brighton had this to say: ‘I am extremely satisfied with my Hitachi heat pump. It exceeded my expectations during the recent snowfalls in July and August... the house was warm and toasty all day even with freezing temperatures outside. In fact I didn’t realise how cold it often was until I opened the front door.’

with rebuilding Christchurch

Homes where the primary heat source has been lost are having heating equipment such as heat pumps or log burners installed or repaired.

Choosing the

The EQC is working along side Fletcher Earthquake Recovery (EQR) to provide heating to all homeowners who had lost their primary heating source in the quakes. The winter heating programme was established to ensure households with an EQC claim, could stay warm, especially through these past winter months. Priority was given to homes with occupants who were sick, elderly or who have young children, or houses with no other heating.

YEAR

WARRANTY INCR E

ASING YOUR

COMFORT

Website: www.temperzone.co.nz

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Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Flexible structures performed way better than rigid ones and the choice of cladding made a big difference. |

Wayne Brown Civil structural engineer, reporting after the February earthquake

Roofing done right Roofing is a specialist trade, so use a RANZ member to rebuild or repair your roof.

things to consider about who does the work. company is a far better choice than the Probably the most pressing question is cowboys who often seem to surface and whether you’re hiring reputable tradespeople? target homeowners in distressing times.

have information available, in person or on their websites, to help you decide which product would be best for your situation.

The roof on any building is an integral part of the property so it’s important to use a specialist/professional roofing company to protect your investment.

When the long awaited repair and rebuild of Christchurch gets under way there will be unprecedented activity in the building and construction sector.

The Roofing Association of New Zealand (RANZ) is the national trade association for the roofing industry in New Zealand and its members in Canterbury are reputable specialist roofing companies. When it comes to the work required following the earthquake, using a specialist roofing

Something to consider if a re-roof is required is that the substrate (structure) of the roof (when the old material is removed), may have been damaged in the earthquakes, or be not fit for purpose because it has deteriorated to such an extent that it will need to be replaced.

If your property is going to be part of the new Christchurch there are some important

It is of great concern to all trade associations to learn about rogue operators jeopardising the important work required by misleading homeowners with tactics that are unprofessional and unwarranted when they are not qualified to carry out significant plumbing, electrical or roofing work. RANZ represents more than 300 roofing contracting companies throughout the country, employing around 2500 roofers. Companies must pass a strict criteria to be accepted to membership which includes having been in business for a minimum of two years and having a comprehensive inspection of their work undertaken by independent assessors. What is probably more important is that RANZ member companies are accountable to the association and are governed by their obligations of membership under its code of ethics and code of conduct.

Alterations to the substrate may also be required, depending on the type of roof you choose, so talk to the RANZ member company about this. It can happen that when the old roof is removed the condition of the purlins is poor or the building paper needs replacing, so you would expect the roofing contractors to inform you of the additional costs for replacing these items. It would also be advisable to talk to the RANZ member about the health and safety aspects of having your home re-roofed. The company can advise you whether health and safety equipment will be required, such as scaffolding for your job, as the safety of those working at height is a requirement at law in New Zealand.

RANZ members will provide a five-year workmanship warranty on new roofing however, the association does not underwrite RANZ is recognised as the voice of the roofing warranties/guarantees issued by its members. industry in New Zealand and acts in the best interests of its members by keeping them up In the unlikely event of a serious, irresolvable to date with the legislation and compliance dispute with a member, support is available issues that impact on the roofing industry to the homeowner through the association’s in today’s build environment. Appointed complaint and dispute assessment process. representatives from RANZ represent the industry in many key areas.

What to choose?

In terms of what products to use to re-roof your home or business, RANZ suggests you get this information from the roofing companies you ask for quotes. The manufacturers of these products will also 42 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Roofing Association of New Zealand T (09) 415 0278 F (09) 415 0279 E info@roofingassn.org.nz www.roofingassn.org.nz

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Forgotten

lessons of the past Following the Christchurch earthquakes, engineering experts have recommended replacing heavy tile roofs with lightweight metal roofing. Inspections revealed that extensive damage was caused to houses by chimneys falling through heavy tile roofs, or by the tiles coming loose and falling, whereas metal roofing generally did not collapse under falling chimneys and was able to withstand the quakes themselves. That was one of the main findings of Wayne Brown, a trained civil/structural engineer and Mayor of the Far North.

Brown was part of Operation Suburb, which involved a team of 400 building inspectors and 300 welfare officers visiting all homes in the affected suburbs to assess damage following the February 22 earthquake. Building inspectors red-stickered any dangerous or uninhabitable homes, and Brown was one of a group of 12 engineers that provided follow-up to further assess borderline, tricky or dangerous structures and land subsidences and confirm or remove the red stickers. Following that work during the first week of March, Brown produced a report to Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker and the Minister of Housing, Maurice Williamson, outlining his findings. In it, he says “Simply put, house damage fell into some obvious categories and some simple rules were agreed among the engineers that would have reduced the damage cost by billions if they had been in place. Feature continues on next page

Metrotile. A company making a difference in Christchurch Following the Christchurch earthquakes Metrotile, a privately owned New Zealand company, offered $250,000 of free metal roof tiles to the people of Christchurch. This offer was made in April 2011 and so far eleven of the applicants have had a free roof lot of metal tiles installed on their homes. Dear Gary THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH FOR THE NEW ROOF. It looks awesome. We had a few smaller aftershocks on Saturday night and we were amazed - NO SOUND! YOU WILL NEVER KNOW WHAT THIS OPPORTUNITY HAS MEANT FOR US. Kind regards Rosemarie Clouston Hi Gary, I am one of the fortunate recipients of your generous offer of free roof materials. My roof was finished today and is amazing. It has totally changed the appearance of my home for the better and I have no doubt it has improved the value too. We now have a safe, watertight, great looking roof. Thank you once again for your very kind offer. Best regards Linley Coulson

Hi Gary I am delighted with the new roof and Pete who installed it is a really good guy, worked through the southerly storm and got it finished last night. Thank you very much for the materials you supplied and I sleep much better at night now knowing I have a light roof over our heads. Regards Craig Taylor The Ross family, who own and work within the Metrotile business, have over 65 years experience in roofing and their wide range of lightweight metal roof tiles areparticularly well suited to New Zealand conditions. Metrotile welcomes all Roofing Company, Builder and Technical enquires.

New Zealand’s most experienced roofing manufacturer. Telephone: (09) 299 9498 Email: info@metrotile.com www.metrotile.com

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Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

“Flexible structures performed way better than rigid ones and the choice of cladding made a big difference. Earthquake responses are worse with increased structure weight, particularly weight up high,” Brown says. “Heavy roof tiles and brick chimneys consistently failed and as they fell they created more damage and danger to anyone below. Conversely corrugated iron roofs performed well, even when the chimneys fell as they kept the inhabitants safe. If this had been at night many would have died from falling tiles and chimney bricks. Why not ban both and use iron roofs and steel chimney flues?” Echoing those findings is a report done by the Royal Society of New Zealand, the Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand, the Structural Engineering Society New Zealand, the New Zealand Geotechnical Society and the New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering, who co-ordinated science and engineering expertise from across New Zealand.

The lesson of the metal chimney flue doesn’t seem to have made it south into Canterbury, yet these (brick chimneys) virtually all failed, often landing in upstairs bedrooms.

In a section concerning improving earthquake safety, the report recommends: “When building, use ‘earthquake friendly’ materials like piled or waffle-slab foundations, timber (or light steel frame) walls and lightweight roofs. Remove heavy roofs like concrete tiles and replace them with lightweight materials “When you put a heavy mass on your home, such as steel.” like a concrete roof versus lightweight steel The report also recommends that larger brick or cedar shake, it causes problems when the ground shakes,” said James Bihr, a structural and masonry buildings can be earthquakestrengthened by either internal steel bracing engineer and co-author of a study on the effects of the 6.8 Northridge earthquake on or an external steel frame. residential roofs in 1994.

Impact damage

Another report, compiled by Professor Andy Buchanan and Michael Newcombe, at the University of Canterbury, points out the damage done by falling chimneys and how metal roofs were better able to withstand the impacts. Their report says “The most common type of damage for older buildings (more than 15 years old) was chimney collapse. This occurred in many thousands of buildings. “Falling chimneys could be interpreted as a violation of the ‘life-safety’ criterion required by New Zealand Standards (NZS1170.5:2004) for current building seismic design. Falling chimneys resulted in damage or piercing of the surrounding roof structure, damage to neighbouring properties, vehicles but (luckily) no loss of life.

The study, conducted by The McMullen Company, said lightweight materials “tended to withstand shaking and appeared to not contribute to other structural damage.” Yet hundreds of heavy tile roofs were damaged “where no other significant structural damage was obvious.” In Wayne Brown’s report, under a section entitled ‘Forgotten lessons of the past’, he makes this point: “ECANZ have posters reminding of the swarm of earthquakes that damaged the Christchurch cathedral in the 1859 to 1870 period, yet it was widely reported that only the recent earthquakes have had this effect. “Locals built in timber frame and iron roofs for the fifty years following those 1870 earthquakes but slowly they forgot and moved to brick and tile with tragic consequences. The lesson of the metal chimney flue doesn’t seem to have made it south into Canterbury, yet these (brick chimneys) virtually all failed, often landing in upstairs bedrooms.”

“Chimney collapse on to corrugated steel roofing often caused no further damage,depending on the height of the chimney, but some fell through the roof or caused rafter failure. Chimneys falling on to tile roofs (concrete or clay tiles, or slate roofs) more often fell through into the house, Also in the report in the section titled sometimes causing further structural damage ‘Restoration recommendations’, Brown observes, “Many houses with timber frames and potential loss of life.” but tile roofs and brick veneers looked The experience in the United States has dreadfully damaged after the walls had been the same where structural and civil fallen off and the tiles had fallen through engineers in Southern California say home the roof structure, but in many ways these builders and homeowners should increase houses have been made much safer than their use of lighter weight roofing systems. they were. 44 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Wayne Brown Civil structural engineer, reporting after the February earthquake “There are thousands of houses in this situation and it would be a waste to demolish these. Repairs are relatively simple. Reclad the roofs in corrugated iron (or if they must have tiles, use metal tile strips). This requires no structural change as this is a much lighter solution.” Brown goes on to make these points about the Building Code: “From this operation it is clear that complicated codes of recent years were of little benefit as they simply had not been followed or most likely not even understood or in wide public acceptance.

ground movement they probably would be disallowed under the 50 year rule. This needs a revisit.” Brown also worries that mistakes of the past may be repeated if the insurance industry insists on sticking to the letter of agreements for replacement cover of damaged housing.

“It would seem unwise to replace a failed brick veneer and tile roof with the same products that have performed so poorly. Surely a better result is a reclad in weatherboards and a corrugated iron roof, but it is possible that the insurance contract “Simple sensible widely accepted rules would wording might work against this.” have done far more good than toughening However, having sighted the report, the up what is already a laughably long and Insurance Council of New Zealand says complicated residential building code that it would expect insurers to work with concentrates on the wrong things. homeowners for the best possible outcome, and contracts could be reworded to guard “This earthquake has focused us all on what against any future events. really matters and that is the choice of safe, reliable, easily built and inspected building products and systems. Wayne Brown is a civil/structural engineer, founder of Brown and “The excellent performance of very old Thomson Consulting Engineers of timber frame, corrugated iron houses that Northland and Auckland, owner of a precede any current building code proves construction company specialising in this. Good structural performance of houses domestic construction, house removal was not code related but was impacted by and restoration of Historic Places listed the type of structure and the cladding and buildings. He is experienced in post roofing choices and the flexible ones proved disaster engineering reporting and is the best. also the Mayor of the Far North. He has extensive experience at chairman level “The recent code’s fixation on 50-year of large infrastructure companies that reliability has produced unexpected, have experienced major failures before unwanted poor results (a lot of houses his arrival, such as Vector, Transpower didn’t last 50 years), and was probably behind the widespread use of concrete floors and LTSA. He has designed and developed a number of projects in Christchurch in the low lying flat suburbs that suffered including Hoyts on Moorhouse. This article from liquefaction. was provided courtesy of the New Zealand “If timber subfloor structures had been used Metal Roofing Manufacturers Association that were designed for easy re-levelling post Inc (NZMRM).

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Keeping it

under wraps

Christchurch home owners and builders wanting to weather-proof their damaged houses need look no further than U-Shrink wrap. U-Shrink offers an exciting and innovating product that literally shrink wraps homes, buildings and building products to protect them from the weather and environment.

Strong shrink wrap

U-Shrink is the national supplier of shrink wrap weather containment products and accessories to the building trade and DIY sector. The wrap forms a tough, skin-tight, seamless cover and can cover any building or structure, regardless of shape. It is ideal for construction, re-clads, marine, storage and shipping. U-Shrink owner Matt Trayes says the wrap is perfect for repairing Christchurch homes damaged in the earthquakes. The water-tight plastic membrane, which is a similar gauge to black polythene, can be stretched over a roof or around scaffolding. A heat shrink gun is then used to heat shrink the film, causing it to shrink by up to 30 percent and mould itself tightly around the structure. U-Shrink was formed in response to a need from the construction industry to remain productive in all weather conditions, and from a desire by the trade to be able to erect its own weather-proof environment cost effectively. “It eliminates the weather, so tradesmen can work even on wet days, significantly improving productivity in the building industry by giving trades access to an all-weather working environment. It also offers partial security and creates a much more comfortable environment for home owners still living in the house, which makes it ideal for use in Christchurch,” Trayes says. “It’s not like a tarpaulin, which flaps around. It’s light and transparent so it still lets natural light in, and if you have a hole in your roof or your chimney has fallen off it creates a perfect seal to keep heat in.” U-Shrink can withstand high winds, rain and snow and can last up to one year in the sun. U-Shrink has a supply agreement with the world’s leading shrink wrap manufacturer and carries only the top premium grade, ensuring the highest quality wrap on every job.

Training the trades U-Shrink is currently running a national authorised installer programme through the building industry to train trade members in the correct and most effective application. Trayes says his company is a national distributor and installer of shrink wrap and is currently seeking people in Christchurch who are keen to become certified U-Shrink installers. “We engage with the trades directly and our current focus is on ‘training the trades’. “We have certified installers all over the country and are currently negotiating with a couple of large reputable building companies in the city. I’m hoping to have our first certified installer in place in Christchurch within a few weeks,” he says. While most work in Auckland involves repairs to leaky homes, U-Shrink is also involved in the dismantling and wrapping of a large industrial plant that is being transported off shore and reassembled. For Christchurch, the company is wrapping large building modules which are fabricated in Auckland and being sent to Christchurch for the repair of a high-profile heritage building. The shrink product is ideal for wrapping and protecting goods being transported. The product can also be used for large dust abatement projects for containment of dangerous dusts such as asbestos and lead. “Our product is suitable for anybody using a small tarpaulin up to large commercial projects,” he says.

Ease of use “We’re just trying to educate the trades and consumers on its versatility and ease of use.

U-Shrink can withstand high winds, rain and snow and last up to one year in the sun.

“There’s a lot of scope for people whose homes are being repaired in Christchurch. Our wrap is recognised by the insurance industry and it’s quick to install. It’s like an industrial glad wrap that is welded together by heat.” U-Shrink is ready to supply the large Christchurch market and hopes to eventually have several certified installers operating in the city. “Our customers often say there’s no better way to get the job done efficiently, cost effectively and on time, every time,” Trayes says. “I believe this is a true value add for any construction project wanting to increase its productivity.”

U-Shrink PO Box 31 422 Milford Auckland 0741 T (0508) 333 777 F (09) 281 4792

www.ushrink.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 45

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Picking up

on solar potential

Are solar panels set to soar? Although solar cells have been available for many years, uptake has been limited by their cost. According to Dr Justin Hodgkiss, a lecturer in Victoria’s School of Chemical and Physical Sciences, this is because conventional solar cells use silicon to absorb light and convert the energy into electricity, and processing silicon into a working solar cell is very expensive. He is one of a number of scientists in New Zealand and overseas who are investigating an alternative option of making solar cells from polymers or plastics. They are building on the work of Nobel Prize winning New Zealand scientist and Victoria alumnus Alan MacDiarmid who discovered the electronic conductivity of polymers. Dr Hodgkiss says the major advantage of using polymers is that they can be dissolved to make an ink and then printed in sheets. “That opens the possibility of making them quite cheaply. We might even be able to use existing machinery.

“In Australia they are experimenting with printing polymer solar cells on the same presses used to print money.” The resulting solar cells would have a few layers made up of films of an active polymer sandwiched between transparent electrodes. “It sounds complicated but it’s not very different from a potato chip bag.” Polymer solar cells are currently less efficient than those using silicon but that is changing.

“Four years ago when I started working in this field, polymer solar cells had a power conversion efficiency of four percent and it’s now eight percent (different types of silicon cells are between 10 and 20 percent) so it’s on a steep trajectory.” He estimates that if every New Zealand rooftop was covered in a material containing a 10 percent efficient solar cell, it would easily generate all of New Zealand’s energy needs.

The goal, or outcome, is solar cells that are incorporated into roofing materials and providing all the energy used in a home or office building could become an affordable option in New Zealand within a decade. “Solar energy is such an untapped resource and one that could easily meet global energy demands if properly harnessed. It’s also promising for New Zealand. The fabrication process for polymer solar cells is so simple, there is no reason we can’t do it here.”

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Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Lightweight metal

roofing recommended for

post-quake Canterbury The implementation of safe, dependable, easily installed and inspected building products and systems is paramount to a successful rebuild effort in Christchurch. And in the wake of the earthquakes, engineers have strongly recommended lightweight metal roofing over heavy tiled roofs. The Canterbury Earthquakes: scientific answers to critical questions (2011), a report compiled by scientists and engineers from a range of disciplines, simply states: “When building, use ‘earthquake friendly’ materials… Remove heavy roofs like concrete tiles and replace them with lightweight materials such as steel.” Indeed, lightweight COLORSTEEL® roofing has proven to be a strong performer in the recent seismic activity – in most cases where a brick chimney collapsed onto a COLORSTEEL® roof it went no further. Experienced in post-disaster engineering reporting, well-known structural engineer Wayne Brown was one of a team who assessed damage to Canterbury homes following the February 22nd earthquake.

His inspections revealed extensive damage was caused to houses by chimneys falling through heavy tiled roofs, or by the tiles coming loose and falling, whereas metal roofing generally did not collapse under falling chimneys and was able to withstand the quakes themselves. “Heavy roof tiles and brick chimneys consistently failed and, as they fell, created more damage…” said Mr Brown. Mr Brown concluded by suggesting a ban of both roof tiles and chimney bricks, and proposed using iron roofs and steel chimney flues instead. Another report, compiled by Professor Andy Buchanan and Michael Newcombe at the University of Canterbury, concurs with Mr Brown’s assessment, noting that metal roofs were better able to withstand the impact of falling chimneys. What’s more, the report observed how the weight of a structure affected homes’ performances during the earthquakes. Older heavier houses (mainly pre-1970s) with heavy brick or concrete-block veneer and concrete-tiled roofs, seemed to suffer more structural damage than newer lighter buildings. Buildings with heavy roofs tended to have more lining damage than those with light roofs, and sinking into soft soils appeared to be more severe for buildings with heavy brick cladding and heavy tiled roofs.

A case of the shakes? It’s covered. COLORSTEEL® roofing has proven to be a strong performer in the recent seismic activity – in most cases where a brick chimney collapsed onto a COLORSTEEL® roof, it went no further. Lightweight roofs (at about 1/7th the weight of a concrete tile roof) are recommended as a cost-effective method to improve earthquake safety. And some councils will allow you to replace a heavy roof with a COLORSTEEL® roof without a building consent.

Clearly, when Canterbury homeowners consider how to repair and rebuild their existing home, or build a new one, choosing a lightweight metal roof is a smart option. At about 1/7th the weight of a concrete tile roof, lightweight metal roofs are a simple, safe and cost-effective method to improve earthquake safety. Steel’s design flexibility also means it can be used to re-roof any structure, which is particularly good news for older houses with sagging and damaged rooflines due to the weight of tiles. By re-roofing with lightweight metal such as COLORSTEEL® roofing, a home’s appearance and weather tightness can be restored – as well as the peace of mind of its occupants.

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THE ROOF OF NEW ZEALAND® www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 47 J12679_Canterbury Today_advertorial_Full page.indd 1

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Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Case Studies Re-roofing using Skellerup Hatteras asphalt shingles A Mellons Bay residence with an existing decramastic tile (metal tile with a mineral chip), roof had lost a considerable amount of its chips, leading to corrosion and popping nails. This resulted in an unsightly but worse still, leaking roof. The roof was skillion style with no insulation installed in its tiny roof cavity, resulting in insufficient ventilation of internal moisture. The home owners needed to reroof with a durable system that would also incorporate insulation and ventilation. It was also important to them that the very steep roof had a defining look as it was a major feature of their home. The BRANZ appraised Skellerup “Hatteras” tile (pictured right), was selected for its traditional slate-like

appearance which complemented the building’s architecture. Viking Roofspec recommended that its Approved Applicator install the plywood substrate onto the existing purlins to promote airflow throughout the roof; thus maximizing ventilation. The home owners were thrilled with the result; commenting that out of all the renovations they had completed on their home, the roof was the one that had provided the most aesthetic impact. With 40 years of warranted protection from a shingle installed only by an approved applicator and designed for maximum ventilation and extreme weather conditions, the owners now have a warm, dry home and peace of mind all year around.

Coverage

Skellerup Warm Roofs During the design stage of a large Tauranga Home the owner was focused on reducing the energy consumption within the home; future-proofing it to ensure ongoing energy savings and achieving a complete waterproofing solution. As a result, a ‘warm roof’ was specified. A warm roof takes the dew-point (condensation) to the outside of the building envelope by insulating a building from ‘the outside in’ using rigid insulation panels on top of the roof substrate. But the owner also wanted a waterproofing membrane that was high in solar reflectivity to add to the existing cooling properties of the insulation resulting in further energy savings. Skellerup’s Warm Roof solution was specified using Skellerup Enviroclad as the roofing membrane system. This combination of membrane and rigid insulation panels (called polyiso) met the solar reflectivity

and thermal efficiency needs of the owner. This warm roof system achieves higher R-values per inch than its competitors.

for all conditions

The Skellerup Warm Roof solution uses a polyurethane foam-based adhesive system called FAST Adhesive to adhere the insulation to the substrate which has wind uplift properties that rival mechanical fasteners, but negate the thermal bridging that can result from them. The Skellerup Warm Roof Solution with Skellerup Enviroclad membrane offered an effective solution in driving energy efficiency within the building while ensuring a watertight finish. (Since completing this project, the Skellerup Warm Roof has become BRANZ Appraised, No. 713).

Skellerup EcoStar Roof Tiles Wellington’s St Andrews Church underwent an extensive three phase upgrade. The first phase (completed in early 2009), involved renovating the external structure and roof. Due care and attention were the order of the day as the church dates to 1923, is a category one Historic Places Trust Building, the only English Baroque church in the country and a significant Wellington landmark. The roof needed to be replaced, the structure strengthened for earthquakes and concrete repair

and treatment undertaken. It was vital that the new roof was sympathetic to the building’s architectural era. With the green light from the Historic Places Trust, the Wellington City Council and architects, Skellerup EcoStar Majestic Slate roof tiles were selected. The tile provided a watertight solution on the new plywood substrate which braced the building. The finished look complemented the exterior of this outstanding and important piece of historical architecture.

48 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

The importance of a good roof simply can’t be understated because it’s the most important part of a building’s structure.

system for the most demanding of new roof, deck, re-roof or overlay applications.

The Skellerup roofing range includes worldclass, single-ply and two layer membrane systems for low pitch areas, and premium pitched roofing systems. Being such a vital New Zealand homes, commercial and industrial properties are subjected to best and component to any building, quality assurance is key, so Viking’s most widely used products worst nature can throw at them. are ‘BRANZ Appraised’ to ensure they meet Unfortunately, Christchurch has involuntarily the demands of New Zealand’s uniquely unearthed additional requirements… the need varied weather conditions. for light-weight roofing and strong substrates There’s another important aspect designers that will brace the entire building — both factors maximising the longevity of a building and builders need to factor in — sustainability. Environmentally unfriendly doesn’t cut it any and more importantly, its inhabitants. more, so operating in a sustainable manner And nobody needs reminding about how is a key priority for Viking Roofspec. The damaging and costly the leaky homes debacle company is an active member of the NZ Green has been. Poor standards across all facets of Building Council and is committed to offering the construction sector have laid waste to environmentally-friendly, practical solutions. not only homes up and down the nation, but But a roofing system is only as effective as its to the dreams and financial security of their installation. Viking Roofspec’s stringent three owners as well. stage internal licensing programme ensures Your roof is something you cannot leave to Skellerup approved applicators will install your chance. You should seek the advice, help roof or deck to the highest standards from and systems endorsed by specialists like the waterproofing and aesthetic perspectives. people at Viking Roofspec. The company offers an exclusive This company specialises in the supply Viking Full System Warranty for specific and distributes a wide range of Skellerup projects where both the workmanship and roofing and waterproofing systems for both materials will be warranted under a single residential and commercial buildings. document for 20 years, no matter what may happen to the applicator in due course. The Skellerup is a name familiar to Kiwis and its buck stops with Viking Roofspec. roofing systems have been keeping New Zealanders dry for 42 years. Today, its diverse range of pitched and low-slope roofing solutions ensures there is an appropriate

T 0800 729 799 www.vikingroofspec.co.nz

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

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Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Composites for

flexibility

As the debate around the future of Christchurch continues, it is becoming increasingly clear that new thinking in terms of the planning, design, restoration and construction is called for to cope with the city’s ongoing seismic instability.

This brings into focus the many benefits of fibre composites (fibreglass, resins and epoxy). These present almost limitless opportunities to play an increasingly significant role in building construction as the preferred alternative material to replace timber, steel and concrete. Timaru based Aeromarine Industries Ltd, one of three South Island fibre composite manufacturers who participated in the fibre composites seminar in Christchurch in November, lists six major features making composites the ideal material for restoration in the rebuilding of Christchurch.

These include their light weight and strength, especially compared to concrete, metal

and wood (with a composite structure often weighing a quarter of that of a steel structure with the same strength); corrosion and chemical resistance; elasticity; nonconductivity and insulation. Composites Association of New Zealand (CANZ) president, Bobbie Mortensen says fibre composite materials give architects and planners a “unique design freedom” both on their own and in combination with traditional construction materials.

Scope, opportunity “There are simply no other materials able to provide such wide ranging scope and opportunity as fibre composites for building earthquake resistant structures.

Composites have featured in the restoration of Wellington landmarks, the Town Hall (above), and Kircaldie and Stains.

Mortensen says that fibre composites technologies and design solutions are well tried and tested from having been applied around the world in the rebuilding of severely earthquake damaged cities such as San Francisco, Kobe and Mexico City.

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At the same time an immense store of knowledge has been garnered over the past half century from the extensive use of fibre composites to help rebuild cities and towns devastated by huge tornadoes throughout the United States’ Mid-west plains. Fibre composites are also being widely used in large infrastructure projects, a prime recent example being Melbourne’s West Gate Bridge expansion - the largest project of its type globally — in which 40km of carbon fibre laminates were used.

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50 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“Continuous dvancement in manufacturing technologies and performance is seeing growing acceptance and preference for fibre composites and resulting in the sector steadily penetrating and conquering new markets, particularly in building construction,” she says.

187 Dyers Road, Christchurch, Phone: 03 384 9482 Fax: 03 384 9258 Email: sales@reflex.co.nz www. reflex.co.nz

Mortensen says that because of their wide range of applications, strength, light weight and versatility, fibre composites have a significant role in the successful rebuilding and restoration of Christchurch, whatever form is eventually decided upon.

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

“There is little doubt that Christchurch, at least in the foreseeable future, is going to have to cope with ongoing seismic activity and must look at fibre composites for the ability it gives to construct buildings that are lighter, more resilient and pliable, without losing any strength. A good example of this is the fibre reinforced polymer composites produced by BASF, which are thinner and lighter than steel with 10 times the tensile strength,” she says.

Far left: Curving composites in Beijing. Left: A replica chimney on a brick and tile house, produced by Quakesafe Building Solutions in Christchurch.

Heritage repairs Fibre composite facades are also ideal for the restoration of earthquake damaged heritage buildings such as the Christchurch Cathedral, the New City Hotel in Colombo Street and the Masonic Lodge in Lyttelton. She says the composites industry is the only sector that is able to provide a solution to salvage iconic facades, chimneys and the like. “We have many wonderful examples, including the work of Feilding-based Fibreglass Developments Ltd which carried out a remarkable restoration of the Wellington Town Hall. This was done producing authentic looking parapets, bolsters and column capitals

out of fibre composite materials, working from Fibre composites either on their own or original photographs.” mixed with other materials provide an ideal combination of high strength, low weight and On a larger scale, facades can be produced so thermal insulation. They allow flexibility of that the weight of the cladding material does architectural design resulting in the visual not hinder the overall weight. Curved panels and historical value of restored buildings can be made from a ‘sandwich’ of fibreglass being maintained. and epoxy resin with a structural foam core. To install the facade, panels can be hoisted up Benefits include: by crane and installed by a watertight bolted Weight saving increases safety panel to panel connection. This gives the Replicas preserve the historical effect of seamless cladding over a large area, significance of buildings with significant time and cost saving.

p p

p Retains architect’s vision p Future proofing for aftershocks or

earthquakes occurring in the future.

Composites Association of New Zealand P O Box 75 345 Manurewa T (09) 295 2200 E bobbie@pjhobbs.co.nz www.composites.org.nz

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Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

Flexible structural integrity Light steel framing is flexible and sympathetic to the shake of an earthquake. That’s why so many steel structures came through the catastrophic earthquakes in Canterbury so securely.

Here in Christchurch the number one priority for many of us in the rebuild is ensuring we have an even safer city than before. However, rebuilding with steel offers a multitude of other benefits.

“From a construction perspective, it’s quick and easy. Light steel framing is roll formed in a computised, meaning builders and designers know accuracy will be assured when it arrives on site.

time. “It does not warp and shrink as other materials do and when its manufactured in New Zealand by NZ Steel it gets the asthma health tick too, therefore creating a healthy home.”

“There are so many reasons to be passionate about steel,” enthuses Carl Davies, president of the National Association of Steel Housing (NASH).

“It can be constructed in wet weather, so meeting time and budget constraints is easy. You will save money on construction time.” Davies says steel also stands the test of

In a world where global warming and enormous landfills exist, building green has never been so important. “Steel can be recycled easily. If you are demolishing a home, you can take the steel from it, recycle it and put it in a new home. NZ Steel gives a 50 year guaranteed durability statement on all its products, meaning there are no expensive upgrades using more resources.”

Strong safe steel It’s a well-documented fact that steel stands up well to earthquakes, and Davies says the engineering reports he’s seen on steel framed houses in Christchurch show they held up well to the all the earthquakes we’ve had. Back in 2009, when the word ‘earthquake’ was a risk and not a reality, NASH undertook full-scale shaking table tests on a steel framed test house at the University of Melbourne. The testing was undertaken under the direction of Professor Emad Gad, with technical support being provided by Associate Professor Charles Clifton of the University of Auckland and NASH specialists. Graham Rundle of Redco (NZ) Ltd designed the test house. It measured approximately 2.6 × 2.8 m in plan and 2.4 m in height. It had a light steel frame with brick veneer exterior cladding and plasterboard interior lining. Feature continues over the page

52 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

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Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | Trade Organisation Perspectives

The steel frame was manufactured from 0.75 mm thick G550 lipped C-sections. The bricks were standard 70 Series with Type brick ties. The ties were screwed to the flanges of the studs through a standard 40×10 mm thick thermal break. The front and side walls were separated at the corners, in order to simulate long brick veneer walls. A roof slab weighing 1500 kg was placed at the top and was supported by the frame to simulate the equivalent mass from a house roof. The result was that the test house exhibited the same dynamic characteristics as those of a typical full-scale single-storey brick veneer house. It had a fundamental natural frequency prior to earthquake shaking of approximately 6Hz. Small and large earthquakes were simulated. The objective was to assess the performance of light steel framing with brick veneer walls when subjected to out-of-plane earthquake loading, having been previously subjected to in-plane loading (which has the potential to weaken the veneer/tie/stud system). The house was subjected to earthquake motions based on the El Centro 1940 North-South record, an earthquake which killed nine people, scaled to generate levels of earthquake loading ranging from

serviceability to the maximum considered. To ensure that appropriate levels of loading were applied, the target shaking levels were verified by measured table accelerations. The house performed extremely well, with the maximum considered levels of shaking only causing minor cracking to the plasterboard and brick veneer walls. Even though, at this level of loading, major loss of the veneer walls is acceptable. The house was then subjected to even more severe shaking, up to nine on the Richter scale. It did not suffer serious damage up to and including 2.6 times El Centro, with no bricks being lost from the out-of-plane walls. This is an extremely good performance given that the house had already been subjected to seven high level earthquakes and considering the amount of quakes we’ve had in Christchurch this year, very true to life. The testing was terminated after a final shake equivalent to 2.7 times El Centro (1.57 times the maximum considered) because the capacity of the shaking table had been reached. Davies was overjoyed at the success of the tests. “I was very optimistic, the engineers were very optimistic, but it still exceeded expectations.”

Fire wise Not only has steel withstood strong earthquakes, but British testing has shown it can withstand fire too. A full-scale loaded fire test was undertaken on a light steel floor at the Building Research Establishment in the UK. The reason for this research was to develop generic fire design guidance for the light steel framing industry, as well as demonstrate the performance according to the more severe European standard. After comprehensive testing, it was revealed that after 90 minutes the joist temperature reached 280°C, which corresponded to a furnace temperature of over 1000°C. At this point, the deflection had only reached 30mm, which was well below the span/30 limit of 140 mm according to European Standard, the mean temperature of the upper surface was also less than 60°C, which was well within the 140°C limit for this fire test standard. Finally, the eventual failure point was at 92 minutes. At this stage, the deflection was 230 mm due to the rapidly increasing steel temperature, which had reached approximately 600°C at this stage. The fire resistance period of 90 minutes achieved in this test clearly demonstrates that light steel framing can satisfy some of

the most demanding fire resistance periods required for multi-storey buildings. Ninety minutes is a very long time. Certainly enough time for people to quickly evacuate, trapped people to be freed and the fire brigade to arrive and extinguish the flames – peace of mind for home and building owners!

Shout from rooftops Davies says the reason why steel is not used very widely used in New Zealand is because its strong properties are not very well known. “There needs to be more promoting of it and that’s what I’m trying to do! We are shouting from the rooftops saying how great it is, and changing ideas of those in the industry and their clients. “A lot of the time people don’t know how good it is so we’re trying to raise awareness. I’m talking to government departments, consenting authorities and any others who will listen. I’m always promoting it.” Davies says some of the reluctance over using steel is because there are preconceived ideas about it, such as the idea that steel rusts quickly. “NZ Steel made in New Zealand is of very high quality. The product has been made for many years and offers a 50 years durability statement – I think that sums it up. “With imported steel, I would advise people to check the origin and quality and make sure it has equal assurances. Sometimes imported steel is not always to as high quality.” To change people’s ideas, Davies says NASH is working with the youth coming through as tradespeople. “Older people were trained on timber and it’s hard to change that mindset. We’ve got together with the Building Construction ITO and introduced some modules on light steel framing for carpenters. Young people coming through now will have to have knowledge of light steel framing. This is a step in the right direction for us.” National Association of Steelframed Housing PO Box 76134 Manakau Auckland T (09) 262 1625 F (09) 262 2856 E gm@nashnz.co.nz www.nash.org.nz

54 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | NZ Wood

The

wonder of wood

When we think about the future of Christchurch, we have a collective check-list of what it must be like — seismically safe, attractive and sustainable. There’s a resource that ticks all these boxes and more; timber.

Wood in itself moves with an earthquake. That’s why so many wooden buildings — even the historic ones without seismic engineering — came through the shakes very well. But with modern technology, timber is an even greater resource. And at the forefront of strong timber technology is XLam. The Nelson-based company constructs top of the range Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) panels. These have been used in a range of buildings around the world and have been scientifically proven to withstand extremely strong earthquakes. In 2007, a CLT building took on the world’s largest earthquake shake table at Miki, near Kobe, Japan. Video footage of the building’s tests (check out www.xlam.co.nz/ videos/video-four/) show the building being rocked by large shakes twice as severe as the Canterbury earthquakes. Despite the furniture flying around the room, the building withstands the shaking easily. Amazingly, none of the CLT panels were significantly damaged. In fact, it withstood the shakes so well the building was later was dismantled and shipped back to Italy, to be reassembled as a student residence. The benefits of CLT in the Christchurch rebuild were recently endorsed by two industry experts on the word stage — Italian engineer Dr Paolo Lavisci and British architect Andrew Waugh. Lavisci’s company has been instrumental in the rebuild of L’Aquila after the devastating 2009 earthquake, and Waugh’s firm recently designed a nine storey (the world’s highest) CLT apartment building in East London. So attractive and strong was this building that it amazed its promoters by selling all units in less than two hours of opening sales. When Lavisci and Waugh visited New Zealand recently as part of NZ Wood’s speakers conference, they met with XLam’s directors in Nelson. Both men are strong advocates of bringing CLT panels to the Australasian market and see the potential of them in the rebuild of Christchurch.

Screw piling

Peter Stevens’ company SpanWood Building Systems Ltd is a distributor of Xlam products and has a strong commercial partnership with Christchurch-based Global Construction Solutions that supplies structural steel screw piles which are constructed using multiple helices. These geological screw piles are installed using a proprietary modular system that forms a continuous foundation pile which can be drilled up to a pre-determined depth, increasing the load bearing capacity of the soil. The pile depth varies depending on geological conditions but typically can be installed between 2 and 12 metres. There is no downside — the multiple helices can take very high loads which are spread over the designed number of helices which share the loads on the pile. One of the critical factors with earthquakes is the ability of the foundations to take the loads on a building in a quake. Screw piling is the answer to this.

Bounty of benefits

Seismically strong buildings are number one on Cantabrian’s checklists for rebuilding our city, but wood offers a plethora of other benefits. It is an attractive and sustainable resource, as Stevens points out. “For those looking for ‘green’ homes, timber is an excellent material. It has such good natural thermal insulation that under the Home Star rating system (a green building guide) it can achieve seven points immediately — a regular home might only achieve two.” Wood is also fire-resistant, has good acoustic performance and XLam’s CLT panels can be pre-cut to very exact specifications. That’s because they are profiled by CNC machines to meet the specific design requirements of each project. Surfaces and edges may be precisely cut, grooved, slotted, routed, or drilled to receive other structural components, connectors or services. The CNC bridge utilises CAM software which interfaces with the usual range of CAD software programmes in use by architects and engineers.

p Rapid on-site erection is needed to meet tight building programmes or in adverse weather conditions

XLam CLT panels will be available in New Zealand from January 2012.

XLam provides the portal to facilitate this interface with no need for designers to purchase or learn to use new software. After an incredibly difficult 18 months, Christchurch people are looking forward to rebuilding a world class city. When we search for ways to do this, it seems XLam CLT panels are a key part to this solution. They are instrumental in creating buildings which are attractive, quick and easy to build, sustainable and above all — incredibly seismically strong.

CLT APPLICATIONS XLam CLT panels may be utilised as individual building components or as a complete factory-prepared construction system. XLam panels are particularly applicable where: p Foundation conditions or seismic hazard dictate light building mass and easily repairable structure

CLT buildings from Europe and North America.

p The accuracy of CNC machining is helpful to facilitate precise structural connections p Repetitive components are used in multi-unit construction p Factory prefabrication is desirable for full quality control.

XLam 8 Strawbridge Square Nelson T (03) 547 6553 E enquiries@xlam.co.nz

www.xlam.co.nz Peter Stevens — Christchurch agent SpanWood Building Systems Ltd 1 Aylsham Lane Christchurch 8051 T (03) 354 3511 F (03) 354 3512 E pstevens@spanwood.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 55

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | NZ Wood

Time to take timber

seriously

As a building material, wood’s success is unparalleled — it is seismically strong, flexible and easy to work with. From Turkey to China, to medieval Europe to colonial New Zealand, wooden buildings are part of our past. They are the wooden mosques and churches of exotic Istanbul, the tiny cottages in hamlets around the world, the bungalows and baches that make New Zealand unique. Wooden buildings are loved for their sturdiness, quiet comfort and the enormous variety of design on offer. And far from being old-fashioned, innovation now ensures that the construction industry increases the relevance and appeal of wood in today’s building environment. Take the curious looking building at the University of Canterbury for example. Known as the Expan building, this two storey wooden structure sits on a patch of grass near the famed engineering department. And an enormous amount of people have visited since it was put up several months ago. It is where the office of the Structural Timber Innovation Company (STIC), a research organisation funded by a mix of private companies, universities and the New Zealand government, resides.

Nationwide series on ways with

wood

In September and October, NZ Wood held a seminar series titled ‘Reaching New Heights with Wood.’ Among the speakers were two famous international ones, British architect Andrew Waugh and Italian structural engineer Paolo Lavisci. Waugh spoke about the world’s tallest timber building, Stadthaus Tower, which his firm designed. The Stadthaus was built at a rate of one floor a week, showcasing how quickly wooden buildings can be put together. Waugh is designing a multi-storey timber hotel complex on Willow Street, London. The Willow Street complex has been designed for even more off-site construction with every room

56 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

being a prefabricated timber construction, to be simply lifted and connected into place. Engineer Paolo Lavisci discussed his timber engineering consultancy, Legnopiù, which was closely involved with providing high-quality, permanent replacement accommodation for 20,000 people who lost their homes after the 2009 L’Aquila earthquake in Italy. His company’s state-of-the-art timber designs were used for seven of the 185 27-unit, three-storey apartment buildings built within six months of the quake. They were also used as advisors on many of the other timber designs built as part of this massive building project. Since this high profile project, the use of wood in construction has taken off in Italy. Lavisci says his company has completed designs for six and eight storeys and are designing for 12 storeys for large ‘traditional’ building companies, who just a year ago would never even commission a timber house. Both Waugh and Lavisci called on Christchurch to rebuild the city from wood.

The Expan building is part of the seismic and structural work STIC is undertaking. Originally, it began life as a model built from the most innovative engineered technology possible. It was set up in a laboratory to see how well it withstood earthquakes. The fact it was being tested in Christchurch was merely coincidence — the University of Canterbury’s renowned engineering department was part of the research. In a laboratory, it withstood 30-40 simulated earthquakes up to magnitude eight on the Richter scale. STIC chief executive Robert Finch was so impressed with it that the building was put up again on campus and now operates as STIC’s office as well as its primary research and demonstration roles. This all happened before February 22 — and the building then survived the real life shallow 6.3 earthquake without any damage as well. All this shows the design is capable of withstanding enormous amounts of shaking — both simulated ones in a lab and real life strong earthquakes. Today, the building has a number of purposes. STIC CEO Robert Finch says the building is his office, but its most important component is acting as a demonstration building.

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | NZ Wood

“Since February there’s been hundreds of architects, quantity surveyors, property developers, engineers and insurance people and media through here. We’ve had everyone under the sun! It’s designed in an accessible way to show its structure.

The Expan Building, a two-storey wooden structure near the University of Canterbury engineering department, is the office of the Structural Timber Innovation Company (STIC) and part of its seismic and structural work.

“It’s still a research bed, there’s heaps of R&D going on, there are lots of sensors that are measuring the response of the building to all the real-life aftershocks. The building was here on February 22 and withstood that strong quake very well. The paint work etc was all fine — there wasn’t any cracking at all. “The reason why it is damage avoiding is because it is made from timber. Wood is only about half a tonne per cubic metre in its weight, if it was concrete it would be five times heavier. We have lighter buildings, we’re moderating the shaking and we have less mass to shake around so we have less seismic load on the buildings, so that’s why it’s damage avoiding,” Finch explains. The Expan building is designed using Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) and posttension technology. In addition to this strength, there are steel ‘plug and play units’ called dissipaters inside them. When a large earthquake hits, the dissipaters will deform. They are a ‘sacrificial’ part of the building, and are not a key part of the structural design. They are designed to absorb the energy and deform, meaning none of the structure, such as the beams or shear walls are damaged. In the Expan building, if an earthquake deformed one or more of the dissipaters, an engineer would come along and asses if they needed to be replaced. Once that quick and easy replacement process is done, the occupants of the building can return.

… it is damage avoiding is because it is made from timber.

Another piece of timber technology that the building uses is a ‘post-tensioned frame system’, supported by an ‘analogous energy absorbing system’. Similar to the shear wall dissipaters, the steel ‘plug and play’ rods inside the frame system absorb the energy of a shake. After a strong earthquake, they would also need to be checked and potentially replaced, but again this is a relatively quick process. Feature continues on next page

Robert Finch STIC CEO

LVL revolution to multi-storey buildings

This revolutionary award winning building for NMIT Arts & Media building is just one example of how NelsonPine LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) is being applied to multi-storey buildings to replace steel and concrete. NelsonPine LVL is made from a renewable resource requiring a fraction of the energy to manufacture than steel or concrete resulting in a structural material that stores a significant amount of carbon within the product.

The award winning NMIT Arts & Media Building, Nelson Architects Irving Smith Jack

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MS 20393 CT/V2

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 57

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | NZ Wood The award-winning NMIT building in Nelson.

“The whole idea is that they in themselves are not part of the structural integrity of the building, the building doesn’t need these to hold up. The idea is that the rocking posttension and energy dissipation technologies allows the building to avoid being damaged, so you can go back in as soon as civil defence says so. We’re talking about minimising business disruption costs,” Finch explains. NZ Wood, the pan industry marketing arm of the Wood Council of New Zealand, endorses the STIC research. Its design director Jason Guiver agrees with Finch’s statement, adding that while the safety of people is paramount, the longevity of the building is also important. “We don’t want buildings so damaged in a large event that businesses go under, as we’ve seen in Christchurch. With this building design, there isn’t the sheer physical cost, which impacts on the insurance cost. The more buildings we have designed to damage avoidance design, the better it is for our economy.” Another positive for STIC, Guiver says, is that its demonstration building easily got reinsurance after the February 22 quake. “There were no hitches. NZ Wood recognises the importance of building relationships throughout the spectrum, including insurance companies, so that they can appreciate that their exposure to risk reduces with the application of timber technology.” Finch agrees, adding that giving the insurance people all the evidence about the seismic technology STIC had meant it got earthquake cover “no problem” after February 22 — and it was just a standard premium! “I think many large displacement tests plus real earthquakes probably convinced them! I think coming in after February 22 and not finding a single crack helped,” Finch says. In September and October, an international showcase of wood was held around the country, coinciding with the Rugby World Cup. It was for people from a variety of business backgrounds to see and discuss the different ways wood can be innovatively used. “A number of attendees took this information on our technology back with them, including American academics from the West Coast of the USA, a particularly earthquake prone area,” Finch says.

Tried and tested Finch says that part of STIC and NZ Wood’s job is getting the industry onboard. “There’s always a perceived inherent risk with going with something new and different,” he says. “But we’ve now got six building in New Zealand using this Expan technology — for example the award-winning NMIT building in Nelson. If you want to build one in Christchurch, remember it won’t be the first post-tension timber building in New Zealand. Also, it’s important to remember that posttension technology isn’t new in itself; it’s been in concrete structures overseas for years. “What we’ve done is taken that technology and adapted it to make it applicable to engineered timber. The fundamental 58 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

technology is not entirely new, it’s not untested, what’s new is its application to timber. And timber is still is the oldest structural resource in the world, its been around for millennia,” Guiver points out. “It’s very earthquake-resistant. Look at the 1920s wooden bungalows in Christchurch which came through the earthquakes nicely, without any of this modern design the industry has been working on. “People know how to work with timber; builders know how to use it. Ninety-three percent of houses in New Zealand are built with timber — tradespeople are used to it.” There are many other strong properties of timber, other than its earthquake-resistant nature. “The vision for this entire research programme didn’t sit just around seismic design,” Finch points out. “Australian companies are funding and working on this as well. Although they don’t have significant earthquakes, large areas of Australia must cope with high wind loads. This technology is adaptable and applicable for other places.” There’s also the ease and speed with which an Expan wooden structure can be built. Timber is prefabricated off-site and can be pre-made to tight tolerances. “The constructability is fantastic. It can go up very quickly,” Finch says. “When Mainzeal built this STIC building in the lab they gave themselves

five days to build it and were done in just over two days. The next time they built it here, on this site, they did the frame in one day – they halved it again!” Guiver says humans are accustomed to timber homes and we feel comfortable and safe inside. “Many comments we’ve had from the NMIT building in Nelson is that people walk in and say ‘this feels good, this feels safe.’ Timber is tactile, it’s warm, it’s got a nice feeling to it. People like working in timber. “In fact, the Scandinavians have done a huge amount of work into the psychology of living and working in timber — the have found evidence that a timber building lowers your heart rate.”

Celebrating wood Wood is also an attractive resource. Proving this are the winners of the NZ Wood 2011 Timber Design Awards. The showcase Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology Arts & Media (NMIT) building scooped two major awards — in the commercial engineering and commercial architectural excellence categories. The three-storey, seismically-protected timber structure was entirely built from locally grown and fabricated laminated veneer lumber, designed by Nelson-based architects Irving Smith Jack and engineering consultancy Aurecon.

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | NZ Wood

It was described by the judges as “a beautifully integrated design solution where the design process has fully embraced structural timber innovation to create a landmark building for New Zealand.” Other winners include the interior of Wellington Airport’s new international terminal “the Rock”. This won the interior fit-out award with the judges commenting on its “visually arresting interior” which resulted in “an iconic, engaging series of spaces.” The terminal was designed by Studio Pacific Architecture in association with Warren and Mahoney.

Other main award winners were:

p Sustainability: MOTAT Aviation Display Hall, by Studio Pacific Architecture and Holmes Consulting Group.

p The People’s Choice Award: Kanuka Engineered Wood Products Ltd and Structural Concepts Ltd for Red Stag Timber’s Reman building in Rotorua.

p Residential Architectural Excellence:

Winning ways

p Cladding Building Envelope: Rotoroa

The wonders of wood have also been shown in the 48-hour design competition for the Christchurch CBD, in July 2011. Although entrants were able to use any material they wanted, wood was the clear winner.

Little Oneroa House, Waiheke Island, by Cantilever Architects.

Island Exhibition Centre, Pearson & Associates Architects.

Not only did NZ Wood win the supreme award from 14 other teams, but NZ Wood also contributed to one of the other entries which won the architectural award. These top two awards were both timber solutions using advanced designs and engineered timbers. “This drives home the point that modern wood products and systems are exactly what is required in the rebuild of Christchurch,”

Woodco chairman Doug Ducker said after the win. “We all know that people want safe buildings that can withstand further shaking. They are suspicious of multi-storey masonry structures because of their poor record in the recent quakes.” Ducker went onto point towards the Expan building and its exciting concepts. Feature continues on next page

Appraisal No.545 [2007]

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 59

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | NZ Wood The Museum of Transport and Technology in Auckland.

“The damage avoidance timber technology being developed at Canterbury University not only is extremely safe allowing for safe egress during an earthquake, but the building is also very likely to be intact after a quake for quick reoccupation and ongoing use. This would avoid long and expensive rebuilds after any future quakes,” Ducker says. The NZ Wood team was made up of seven people including leading Christchurch architect Jasper van der Lingen, urban designer Dr Jackie Bowring of Lincoln University, engineer Chris Speed of Dunning Thornton, architect and graphics designer Paul King, landscape architect Di Lucas and Canterbury University engineering student Ben Carter.

Green credentials Another important aspect of why wood is such a good resource is its strong environmental properties. Finch describes timber as a “carbon sink,” taking carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and storing it in trees. “When you cut it down and turn it into buildings it still stores it. When you look at

a typical multi-storey timber building, the emissions it takes to make a building can be offset by the carbon stored in the timber, so from day one it is a carbon neutral building! Of course, you’ve got operational energy, but provided the architectural design is good and you have high thermal resistance you will minimise all that.” In New Zealand, forests are always replanted when the trees are cut down, meaning there is no radical deforestation that environmentalists worry about. “The production of concrete world wide produces seven percent of the world’s carbon

emissions,” Guiver says. “Air travel is one percent so if there’s more timber buildings we can fly more!” Finch says that steel and concrete are still needed, but if we can use more timber than we can offset the emissions associated with the use of all the other building materials.

Future visions NZ Wood is passionate about timber and its social, environmental and economic contribution. Timber is life enhancing — it offers strength, durability, comfort and sustainability. Guiver says NZ Wood is keen to assist businesses who also see its potential or want to learn more. He says he meets regularly with architects or property developers needing information and is only too happy meet more. Six buildings around the country have already been constructed with the earthquakeresistant structures and Guiver says there is a lot of interest from the building and design industries in creating new ones.

What is STIC? Structural Timber Innovation Company (STIC) is a research consortium developing and commercialising new technologies that will enable structural timber to compete more effectively in the commercial and industrial building and construction market in Australia and New Zealand. STIC is developing a portfolio of new prefabricated LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) and Glulam (Glue Laminated Timber) structural building systems that will enable multi-storey commercial and longspan industrial portal framed buildings to be easily designed and rapidly constructed using engineered timber products.

Cladding

Sustainable timber Canterbury produced

Outstanding quality Complete component system

60 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

He feels the real potential in wood lies in adding value and using our Kiwi know-how to create pre-fabricated buildings. “We’ve got the technology here, we’ve got LVL manufacturers and fabricators, and we’ve got other companies looking at getting involved. If we can get property developers, architects, engineers behind building in this technology then we can take this forward. “I’d love to be looking back in 15 years time on Christchurch as a catalyst for a booming export market with timber buildings going out left right and centre. We’ve got to be looking at more than just being the primary producer but being stage two, three and four of what we’re doing. “In my previous role at Hunter Laminates in Nelson I used to ship buildings to the Pacific Islands, and things in Glulam and LVL. We are doing it right now, but not in the capacity that we could be. If I were looking back on the tragedy in Christchurch and seeing the industry take its knowledge of safer buildings forward and making places not just in New Zealand but overseas truly safer, I would be very proud.” the Ministry of Science & Technology. The Ministry is matching industry investments in the programme dollar for dollar.

What is NZ Wood? NZ Wood is the pan industry marketing arm of the country’s forest wood sector. The NZ Wood website highlights how different products can be used, gives case studies and the latest news from the industry. NZ Wood hosts seminars and events around the country and offers its design centre services to property developers, builders, engineers and architects interested in creating buildings using wood. The NZ Wood brand is synonymous with integrity, trust and sustainability.

STIC is a New Zealand registered company with seven shareholders: Carter Holt Harvey Ltd, Nelson Pine Industries Ltd, Wesbeam Pty Ltd, Building Research Association New Zealand Inc, NZ Pine Manufacturers Association, Auckland Uniservices Ltd (University of Auckland) and the University of Canterbury.

NZ Wood PO Box 11235 Wellington T 0508 NZ WOOD (0508 69 9663) E info@nzwood.co.nz www.nzwood.co.nz www.nzwooddesign.co.nz

In addition to these shareholders STIC has two other substantial financial stakeholders, who are investing in the research and development, alongside the shareholders. These are the Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) and

Structural Timber Innovation Company Ltd PO Box 8211 Riccarton Christchurch 8440 T 364 2987 www.expan.co.nz

Repairing & Rebuilding Christchurch | NZ Wood

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 61

62 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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energy and no bladder infections. I adopted another dog six months ago and immediately threw away the food the pound gave and started her on the Canidae All Life Stages dry food formula. Canidae is more expensive than other food, but the money that I saved in medicine for bladder infections and vet visits more than make up for it. One thing to be thankful for with the food recall, it made me more aware about the nutrition of my dogs. Linda, Houston

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Focus | Chomondeley

Looking after the

Since 1925 there has been a remarkable and unique facility providing care and education for children whose families are experiencing difficulties and lack the usual supports that many of us take for granted.

Eighty-six years ago Hugh Heber Cholmondeley donated his former home in memory of his late wife Margaret to the children of Canterbury. So much has changed over the years about how children are cared for and what care providers should do to ensure that. What they do achieves positive outcomes for children and their families. From Cholmondeley’s point of view this begins with valuing the child themselves. Today Cholmondeley provides a service that intervenes early when difficulties arise in the home. Although children come for short stays at any one time, the relationship with the child and their family can be ongoing, providing an added layer of support for the child. Many children come for regular stays, depending on their needs. It also recognises that working with a child cannot happen in isolation from their families. Cholmondeley is making sure that children have a voice in their care experience and that their needs are understood and met appropriately. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCROC) is a human rights treaty based on the rights of children. In 1993 New Zealand demonstrated its commitment when it became a signatory. Cholmondeley’s newly developed philosophy of care is informed by this treaty and is grounded in a child rights perspective. The value of adopting this approach is evidenced in research and is the most effective way to bring about positive and lasting change for children, their families and communities. Cholmondeley’s philosophy clearly states what it believes about children and their rights to be valued, consulted and enabled to build resiliency.

64 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

The Cholmondeley story Today Hugh’s legacy lives on as Cholmondeley continues to care for children aged three to twelve years who would benefit from coming for one off or regular short term stays of respite care. Some of the children that stay come as a result of a family emergency, and Cholmondeley is able to respond to these emergencies within an hour of getting the phone call. These children receive 24-hour, quality care and education on site each day. It is available to all

children in Canterbury regardless of socio-economic status. Cholmondeley is truly unique; parents can contact Cholmondeley directly to ask for assistance. They don’t have to go through any another social service provider or state provider. The support provided through community fundraising enables Cholmondeley to be available at low to no cost to families. An average of 15-18 children per day stays at Cholmondeley for an average of 10 days. Usually around 80 percent of referrals are from Christchurch, the rest from wider Canterbury and other South Island provinces. During the last 85 years Cholmondeley estimates it will have looked after around 25,000 children.

Focus | Chomondeley

We will always make decisions that are in the best interests of the child. Cholmondeley provides care for all children who have a need for us. We are passionate but purposeful.

Shane Murdoch Chomondeley general manager

become involved and designed pictures. We want to work with the children on what the new Cholmondeley will look like; after all it is for them.” When developing a strategic plan that would look at creating a more sustainable organisation into the long term, and with so many decisions to make, it was felt that a strong anchor point was needed to ensure that those decisions retained Cholmondeley’s reason for being and its core values. The revised vision of ‘value our children’ has served this purpose. “It was something that struck a chord with us straight away. Not only did it really focus us on what this organisation is about but it was also our call to action for our community, particularly in these times,” Murdoch says. From there, Cholmondeley created its philosophy of care and is now in the process of recognising the changes this philosophy has made to its daily work with children. The crucial part is the relationships developed between the Cholmondeley staff, the children and their families. For a child coming to Cholmondeley their experience is centered on an integrated approach between the components of care and education through the medium of Adventure Based Learning (ABL). This approach focuses on working with the whole child to foster resilience and develop their ability to cope with the challenges they are being presented with.

Earthquake events Due to the February earthquake, Cholmondeley suffered significant damage and the historic building has closed temporarily. Since March Cholmondeley has been operating from Bellbird Heights at Living Springs. General manager Shane Murdoch says it was a sad decision to deconstruct the original home because of its great history and fond memories held by many of the 25,000 children. “The damage was just too great to repair. Cholmondeley will rebuild in Governors Bay and will now look to the future to ensure the services it offers are available for the children

of Canterbury for at least another 86 years,” Murdoch says. Meanwhile, it is business as usual for this remarkable and essential service. Bellbird Heights at Living Springs can accommodate 18 children. However, Cholmondeley always has two to three beds available for emergencies. Cholmondeley will stay at Living Springs until the end of 2012 when the new building should be ready. Murdoch says the children are excited about the new building. “They have

ABL provides physical and intellectual problems for children to solve. The group challenges also help them explore and experiment with different ways of learning. Cholmondeley works with children to identify their own strengths. It does this in several ways including the use of strength charts that are added to throughout their stay.

“It is incredible to see just how much people care for the work we do here. It has also been interesting to see just how much due to diligence donors and supporters are putting into making sure that their dollar is cared for and spent well. “Without support from generous donors Cholmondeley would find it very difficult to continue meeting the needs of this community, particularly in light of the recent earthquakes. We are incredibly grateful for their support,” Murdoch says. However, it is not just about the money. Murdoch feels it is also about building great relationships with the Canterbury community.

Looking to the future Apart from the future plans to complete the new building next year Cholmondeley’s main goal in moving forward is to ensure that the service remains accessible to children and families. It wants to achieve and foster resilience as it is important to work with a child despite what is going on in their life. Murdoch feels that there has always been a mystery around Cholmondeley and he wants the public to understand that it is not an orphanage. “Cholmondeley is available to all children. We do not take children from certain areas or because of certain needs. “From time to time it may be that a child may not benefit from a group care environment as it is not necessarily one size fits all. We will always make decisions that are in the best interests of the child. Cholmondeley provides care for all children who have a need for us. We are passionate but purposeful,” Murdoch says.

Cholmondeley 6 Cholmondeley Lane Governors Bay Lyttelton Since the February earthquake Cholmondeley T (03) 329 9832 has received overwhelming support from F (03) 329 9781 Canterbury, the rest of New Zealand and as far E info@chomondeley.org.nz afield as the United States and Canada. www.cholmondeley.org.nz — Advertising Feature

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 65

Focus | Christmas in the Park

Seasonal While people in other countries around the world huddle down by fires while it snows outside, New Zealand enjoys Christmas in the middle of summer. For us, mistletoe and holly are synonymous with barbeques and the beach, not snowmen and mulled wine. So with Christmas and time outdoors always being inextricably linked, when Christmas in the Park was first launched in 1994, it was instantly a hit. The outdoor free night time performance has grown exponentially from its early Auckland beginnings. There have now been 36 concerts since — 17 in Auckland, four in Wellington and 15 in Christchurch. One of the highlights for young and old is that one of New Zealand’s biggest Christmas trees will be on display. It is 22 metres high, complete with jumbo-sized decorations, and requires a very large crane to put it together. On November 26, the iconic musical event will be co-hosted in Christchurch by More FM’s Simon Barnett and Gary McCormick. The extraordinarily diverse line-up in this year’s Christmas in the Park includes hip hop, Bollywood, modern/contemporary, Samoan Sasa and jazz ballet dance groups, as well as four choirs and a troupe of fresh, new talent sharing the big stage with some of our most popular performers.

Surprises in store Organisers of this year’s show say they are keeping some surprise acts under wraps for now but guarantee they’ll thrill and delight the many thousands of Kiwis who look forward to the magical night of top class entertainment year after year. Among the star-studded line up is local rapper J Williams, famed for his single You Got Me which he recorded with Scribe. Last year saw his single Ghetto Flower spend many consecutive weeks in the top 10 and was he second most viewed New Zealand video on YouTube. J Williams has recently released yet another hit single, Takes Me Higher, with Dane Rumble. Women in their 20s will remember swooning back in 2004 when a fresh-faced Michael Murphy stole their hearts on the first season on New Zealand Idol. Back then he was just a teen, but over the years he has pursued his singing career by touring the USA with his band 5star Fallout. He’s also an accomplished actor, winning the part of Roger in the hit musical Rent.

He has also appeared in a number of movies and television series, including Hercules, the James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever, and a cameo role in Matrix 2. Clarke has an outstanding solo career, performing with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Annie Crummer and Dave Dobbyn. Fans of the Court Theatre will be delighted to see Ali Harper in this year’s lineup. She’s starred in several of the Court’s summer productions over the years, such as Guys and Dolls, The Sound of Music, South Pacific and My Fair Lady. This year has seen Harper busy performing in On the Rocks and Eros at the Court Theatre and with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra. There’s also a line-up of local talent. Take 15 year old singer Max McGillivray. He currently attends Christ’s College, where he sings in the Chapel Choir. In his short life, McGillivray has already sung solos with the Christchurch Cathedral Choir at Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral in London. His most memorable performance was singing with Hayley Westenra, Will Martin, Dame Malvina Major and The Christchurch Cathedral Choir at the St James Church in London. There will also be a plethora of local dance groups and an award-wining cheerleading squad. Of course, the night always ends with a visitor from the North Pole making an appearance, to the delight of the children.

Fundraiser There’s also the opportunity to raise money for a good cause. Over the years, Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park has raised over $2,000,000 for youth charities. This year the charity partner is Surf Life Saving New Zealand who will recruit nearly 200 volunteers to help out at the concerts by selling light sticks, Santa hats and collecting donations. So head down to Hagley Park on Saturday night, November 26, to enjoy the entertainment being offered. Pack up a picnic and bring the family along for what — based on the last 15 years — will definitely be a night to remember.

Other NZ Idol personnel performing will be Christmas in the Park former judges Frankie Stevens and Jackie Hagley Park Clarke. An accomplished singer, Stevens has been part of Christmas in the Park since 1997. November 26 — Advertising Feature 66 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Focus | Christmas in the Park in the Park takes l Christmas almost a whole year to produce. As soon as this year’s concert is over, the organisers will start on next year’s event. in the Park features l Christmas one of New Zealand’s biggest Christmas trees on display. At 22 metres high, complete with jumbo-sized decorations, it requires a large crane to put it together. Christmas in the Park stage is l The now twice as big as the original and is flanked by two giant superscreens. The stage takes more than seven days to assemble. The crew will work through the night to dismantle it after the Christchurch concert — within eight hours it’s on its way to Auckland. 125 people are involved in the l Over production of Christmas in the Park from sound and lighting to stage construction and management plus over 300 more who get involved on the day including police, road marshals, parking attendants, first aid workers and security guards. first Christmas in the Park concert l The was held in Auckland in 1994 and there have been 36 concerts since — 17 in Auckland, four in Wellington and 15 in Christchurch. is 18 year of Christmas in the l This Park in Auckland and the 16 year th

in Christchurch.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 67

Hospitality | The Valley Inn

e m o c l e W , k c a b

Valley Inn

The two questions most frequently asked by first-time visitors to Heathcote are ‘What’s that big concrete thing in the middle of the valley?’ and ‘where’s the pub?’

For those who don’t know, the concrete thing is a silo, a remnant of the once-busy maltworks complex. The Canterbury Malting Company shut in 1999 but the towering silo, concrete buildings and cavernous hangers remain. However, the area’s most well known feature has to be the Valley Inn Tavern.

Heathcote village and its buildings have suffered though the continuous quakes and aftershocks, turning the tranquil spot into a construction area. The sounds of demolition have become familiar, heard by many valley residents. Many of the buildings have now gone, leaving a whole new view of the valley.

Heathcote resident Frank Cork helped with the re-build of the tavern. He has worked as a builder for Mainzeal for more than nine years. In that time he only took one holiday, leaving him with 100 days of annual leave up his sleeve. He used this time to rebuild the Valley Inn.

The inn was originally built as a boarding house for rail tunnel workers in the late 1800s and in 1877 it became the local tavern. Sadly after the September 4, 2010, earthquake the pub was destroyed.

The Valley Inn Tavern, co-owned by Norm Eade and Dean Calvert, is the first suburban tavern to be rebuilt from scratch since the 2010 earthquake. Since opening its doors on September 27, 2011, the beer has been flowing with the regulars and an influx of new faces has appeared.

Calvert explaines that Frank was a life-line in helping the tavern get back on its feet, all because Frank did not want to drink anywhere else. “He wanted his local back,” Calvert says.

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The tavern may be in a new building but its history hasn’t been forgotten. “We have kept all of the memories of the old tavern by displaying over 100 photos on the walls,” Calvert says. The official reopening of the Valley Inn saw Mayor Bob Parker, along with more than 200 patrons, turn up for a celebratory drink. Parker, born and raised in the valley, came to see the tavern restored to its former glory. Calvert has owned the tavern for seven years. “My parents bought the inn and despite a frustrating year, it was rewarding to see it restored,” he says.

The Valley Inn was demolished on September 10 last year and a wishing well in the middle of the bar was all that remained of the original structure. However, Calvert says the outside of the new tavern looks much the same as the old place. Calvert and Eade received planning permission for the re-build on February 21, a day before the devastating 6.3 earthquake. On May 16, building started and in just 17 and a half weeks the pub was back open and running. “It was important to keep the tavern the same shape, especially with its corner position. The old tavern was half the size so we have had the chance to expand the new place,” Calvert says.

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Ph. 03 379 7760 F.ax 03 379 7761 email: sales@calvglass.co.nz 68 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Hospitality | The Valley Inn

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker declares the Valley Inn back in business on September 27, 2011.

Sample Menu

Brunch 11am-2.30pm Eggs Benedict $19 Poached eggs on toasted Foccacia with streaky bacon or salmon lashed with hollandaise on homemade hash brown The new tavern has doubled in size and a spacious beer garden now offers customers the chance to enjoy a drink outside. Calvert explains that he has plans for music and entertainment in the beer garden, for his customers in the summer months. The tavern now not only boasts a large beer garden, but also a new dining area that is separate to the bar. Calvert also has plans to rent out the four self-contained units above the tavern. The new tavern has withstood continuous aftershocks and has showed no signs of damage, making it a safe place for people to go. The tavern has recently recruited a top chef who brings 25 years experience with him. Rob Dickey, previously head chef from the popular Volcano restaurant in Lyttelton, has join the 12 other staff members and he is providing top quality food. “Finally we no longer have frozen toasties and bar snacks,” Calvert says. The restaurant specialises in locally sourced ingredients, cooked in a modern style. The menu changes frequently for its clients. Food is served from 11am to 9pm. There is a great

selection of bar snacks such as crumbed calamari, hot chicken wings and the tasty Valley beef burger. Brunch is also available from 11am, offering eggs benedict and warm corn fritters. In the evening you will find the traditional Kiwi favourites such as steak and chips, fresh fish of the day and a delicious pork fillet served with garlic mash. “We have seen a lot new faces since we have started serving food, families come and enjoy lunch, couples stop in for a bite to eat and our regulars love the fact that they now can have a meal here,” Calvert says. Eade says the locals are happy to be back. “We are like one big extended family here. The atmosphere is still the same. Some of the locals have not seen each other for 12 months as they all went off to different pubs. “It’s so good to see everyone reunited again — welcome back,” Eade says. Valley Inn Tavern 2 Flavell Street Heathcote Christchurch T (03) 384 1124 — Advertising Feature

Corn Fritters $16 Three corn fritters with salad greens and homemade chutney Seafood Platter For 2 $26. For 4 $50 Beer battered fresh fish, fresh steamed mussels, scallops, cold smoked salmon, fries, breads and dips with seasonal fruit Antipasto Platter For 2 $26. For 4 $50 Chicken and beef kebabs, cheeses, crackers, dips, breads, chicken wings, homemade chutneys, olives, garnished with seasonal fruit Valley Burger $16 Toasted bun with tomato, lettuce, cheese and mayo. Served with fries, caramelised onions and Robbie’s special beetroot relish (Vegetarian, chicken or beef) Spicy Pork Ribs $18 $14 Crumbed Calamari Served with Aioli and sweet Thai chilli Hot Wings Spicy marinated chicken wings with salad garnish

$14

Bar snacks served all day Dinner menu Steamed Mussels $13 Freshly steamed opened mussels in white wine and garlic butter Chicken Satay or Beef Two pan-fried chicken skewers with homemade satay sauce and a salad garnish

$13

Fresh Market Fish $28 Catch of the day – chef’s daily choice. Served with vegetables or salad Rib Eye Steak $32 The way you like it. Pepper or garlic sauce or with roasted field mushrooms – lashed with a red wine and cream Jus, served with hand-cut fries, with salad or vegetables

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Hospitality | White Tie Catering / Catering Dept

Delivering

menus for venues Let’s be honest, we all love a good party, especially when there’s food and drink involved. With Christmas around the corner I’m sure many of you will be attending your work Christmas party, meal, shin-dig, blow-out, whatever you call it! How many of you have curiously waited to see the buffet spread at a party or event? You anxiously wait in line to get a sample of the cold sausage rolls, soggy sandwiches, pies that have mysteriously lost their filling, a chicken drumstick — if you’re lucky. All of this starts to get a tad boring after a while. Don’t get me wrong; sausage rolls, warm meat pies, bacon butties and yummy cheese rolls are a few of my favourite things — if done well. So when the well-known White Tie Catering announced its new brand the Catering Dept offering these tasty treats, I had to find out more.

A little history White Tie Catering was established in 1986, since then the company has grown significantly in experience and reputation. The family-owned catering company has become renowned for its excellence and style, exceeding in a repeat clientele all around the South Island.

The company operates from a commercial kitchen in the heart of Christchurch with a team committed to producing the best food and events around. The company has been through a lot since losing its original building in the February earthquake however, it has emerged more passionate than ever about Christchurch and its future potential. Tina Duncan and her husband Grant have led the team since 1999. “We’re here for every new building opening, every site wrap party, every staff party and every anniversary. We want to bring this region of ours, the grooviest, most delicious, cost effective catering available,” Tina says.

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Tina has been living and breathing food since she was a child. At the age of 12 she spent many weekends concocting lavish dinner parties. Tina’s love of good food and creating beautiful events provides the foundation on which White Tie Catering is built. Tina’s daughter, Katie Duncan, the general manager, came on board while spending her teenage years working the front house of White Tie Catering. Katie is the strategic brain behind the business, working closely with the team to ensure all events run smoothly. She is also occasionally found working the floor and wearing a chef’s jacket, as demand dictates.

Tina and Grant have owned the business for 12 years. She feels White Tie is highly regarded and has an excellent reputation as a brand. “White Tie clients see us at the higher end of the market. We are one of the few catering companies that use our own staff. We hand-pick and train our floor staff. This set us apart in the market,” Tina says. Tina also feels by constantly changing the food, it makes it interesting for the client. “Our food has a high quality and it is very contemporary. We have permanent testing and development chefs, constantly designing new food.” However, Tina likes to keep signature dishes such as Akaroa Salmon that have become favourites with regular clients.

Hospitality | White Tie Catering / Catering Dept

White Tie sample menu COCKTAIL CANAPES

¨ Akaroa smoked salmon sandwich, lemon caper mayo, rocket

¨ Chopstick of asparagus, goat’s cheese, prosciutto

¨ Duck pastry, caramelised apple, thyme

¨ Fried bread, minted pea hummus, seared tuna and wasabi caviar ¨ Tartlet, sautéed mushrooms, mascarpone, quince jelly

WEDDING (Plated, 3 courses) ¨ Warm sticky beetroot tart, whipped goat’s cheese, beetroot dust, micros

¨ A little scotch quail egg

¨ Beef fillet, mushroom pancetta gratin, porcini jus

¨ Preserved lemon, chorizo, mozarella arancini

¨ Apple upside down puddings, cinnamon brown sugar ice cream

Catering Dept sample menu Food stations Meat & Greet

Sit down

¨ Fresh bread rolls

¨ Pork belly, crispy crackling, kumara apple mash

¨ Sensational sirloin, garlic herb butter, double roasted tatties

¨ Peter Timbs sausies ¨ T-Sauce, mustards, spicy plum sauce, caramelised onions ¨ Venison & beetroot chutney/ Canterbury beef & cheese burgers

Old School The ‘Catering Dept’ concept The Catering Dept is the dawn of a new era in catering — okay basically, it’s great food that we love to eat. It’s a more informal relaxed style for people who don’t want a sit-down meal for their next event. The Catering Dept is the new cost effective, alternative style

of catering in Christchurch. The company knows that sometimes the food it provides with White Tie isn’t right for a staff-party or informal event. They want to make it easy to cater for all types of people through one company but under two great brands. Feature continues on next page

Making Special

Who doesn’t like to feel they’ve made a unique and charming discovery for themselves? Cossars Wineshed located in lovely Tai Tapu, is quite simply that. An elegant, flexible venue that is equally well-suited to an end-of-year shindig as it is to an individual, lavishly styled affair, it’s a place with an authentic vibe about it.

¨ Thick pork chop, best ever roasting pan gravy, pickled slaw ¨ Bacon wrapped roast chicken, roast trimmings

¨ Awesome sausie roll with cheesy centre

¨ Slow braised lamb shoulder, sweet garlic mash

¨ Mac & cheese ¨ Chutney & cheese rolls

¨ Whole poached beef fillet, horseradish cream, crispy potatoes

¨ Iceberg, chopped egg salad with condensed milk mayo

¨ Chicken supreme, braised white beans with prosciutto

Cossars Wineshed 29 Cossars Road, Tai Tapu

(03) 329 6940

janine@cosssars.co.nz www.cossars.co.nz

“Celebrations at Cossars are boutique and warmly personal experiences,” explains owner Janine Bayley. “We provide a welcoming, french-styled venue and gardens, and work closely with you on how you wish to use it. Our aim is to create wonderful experiences for our clients and we do whatever that takes.” This is especially the case with weddings. Janine believes it is vital to understand what each client wants to achieve, which comes down to listening, sharing ideas and creating a strong framework for the flow of each event. This is often the biggest party a couple will co-ordinate and she recommends working with suppliers you like and trust - and then trust them. “Weddings are incredibly special events. You are publicly affirming many things; your intimate bond and change in status, who you are surrounded by at this point in your lives, along with your own sense of style. This is all important stuff and it’s no wonder that some can find it a bit daunting!” Janine says. “That’s why Cossars is here for support from confirmation to the Big Day itself. A couple of suggestions? Be true to who you are, and personalise with some fun elements that reflect you. Oh, and be nice to your parents!” she laughs. A renovated barn can be used as a dancefloor or a wet weather option for ceremonies. Wooden tables nestle under the olive trees. A tinkling fountain, the lavender, red geraniums and white roses provide a classic backdrop. Add fabulous food, great drinks and your people and you are well on your way to a very special occasion. www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 71

Hospitality | White Tie Catering / Catering Dept Tina could see the market changing and although the White Tie brand is still important to the company, there has been an influx of construction and demolition workers here in Christchurch. “The boys want a pie and sausage roll. We want to provide these great Kiwi foods that are delicious and fun,” Tina says.

Menus to venues

The Catering Dept is the result of this gap in the market for quality at best price. “Often, as soon as you start to lower the price; you lower the quality or the style. We don’t believe you should have to compromise on either. So, we’ve developed a brand that allows for great innovative, contemporary food that is cost effective and hugely appealing,” Tina says.

White Tie has previously catered for two people to a whooping 1500.

The Catering Dept presents its food and staff in an edgy modern style without any unnecessary formality. They are approachable but sharp and professional. The Catering Dept believes bringing in the caterers shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. But a better price shouldn’t mean a compromise on quality. Tina’s daughter Katie explains the Catering Dept’s concept. “We’re about the familiar, ridiculously delicious food, some old favorites (cheese rolls!), some new concepts (fancy cheese rolls!) and the very best of that famous Kiwi hospitality. Traditionally these foods may have been let down by quality so the Catering Dept are here to provide that good quality food,” she says. The new brand wants to make it easy and affordable for people to look after their friends, colleagues, staff and clients with innovative takes on traditional catering. “It’s all about something delicious and familiar, say a bacon buttie made with homemade bread and award-winning Peter Timbs bacon, so basically its a bacon buttie of heaven,” Katie says. You only have to browse the company’s website before you start salivating over a yummy lamb chop with a bread and parmesan crumb, juicy venison burgers, meaty steak and dark ale pies or little boxes of tasty shrimp popcorn. And you’re in serious trouble if you click on the desserts section. Little lemon meringue pies with passionfruit pastry, cherry curd trifle, chocolate trifle, chocolate mousse, layered dark & white chocolate mousse, chocolate cake, apple tart, pastry cream éclairs, Eton mess, banoffe pie, raspberry meringues with cream, caramel meringues with cream and heaps more-literally the company is not exaggerating when they say anything’s possible!

White Tie and the Catering Dept can cater for weddings, corporate events, birthdays, board room dinners, product launches to private events at home. Katie is aware of the different needs each client may have for an event. “As a catering company we need to be flexible to whatever our clients want,” she says.

Tina remembers the two people White Tie catered for. “It was a high-end dinner for a gentleman in hospital. He and his wife requested duck and we ensured that their dinner had that personal touch for them.” The company works closely with a number of venues around Canterbury, building on great, successful relationships.

Katie feels that flexibility, confidence and being solution driven are all part of successful catering. “If people want something we say yes and then work out how,” she says. “People phone us but we encourage them to come in and talk with us face-to-face. A lot of people may phone three or four catering companies and say ‘right I’m getting married, there will be 100 guests and I want this venue, please send me what you have got’. “We can do this but you’re not comparing apples with apples. Everyone presents their information differently. By encouraging people to come visit us we can get a true feel for who they are, what they like and what they need,” Katie says.

The company travels all over the South Island to catering for events. They are regularly going down to Queenstown and Wanaka. “We work regularly with Pemberton in Prebbleton and Cossars Wine Shed in Tai Tapu. These events can last for up to three days. The company also deals online or over the The company also has use of a great new venue, Larcomb Big Barn that provides seating phone with a lot of off-shore clients returning to New Zealand for their wedding. “Skype has for up to 250 people.” become very handy.” Katie says. However, since the February earthquake “People don’t just pick a caterer from the Tina and Katie have seen a growing trend in Yellow Pages. They pick a caterer from word marquee hire for events. of mouth; they rely on us to get it right. We “With a lot of old venues damaged in the will hold your hand from start to finish, we are quake people have hired marquees; they are a complete package. It’s our job to give you definitely the safer option at present. No one the right menu and talk you through it,” is scared of a piece of canvas falling on your Katie explains. head,” Tina says. Having both the White Tie and the Catering The White Tie/Catering Dept has a great dept under one brand can now allow clients selection of venues for anyone who is unsure to come to the company for all occasions. of where to have an event. “They know us, trust us and understand the The personal touch quality of our food. We are just mixing it up While chatting to Tina she remembers a to be appropriate across the board of people funeral lunch White Tie catered for. “The needs,” Tina says. woman whose husband had passed on was unsure of the food she wanted for her guests. When asking Tina and Katie about Christmas parties or events Katie highlights “I like to I sat her down and asked, ‘what would your encourage people to make their event more husband want?’ she replied ‘bangers and memorable. Be brave — go different — do mash.’ So we served bangers and mash with what you want to do and eat what you want onion gravy. When the food was served the to eat!” guests all laughed and said — this is so what he would have wanted us to eat.” Tina feels that food is a really important aspect to people as it reflects you. Unusual requests are also not a problem for the company.

White Tie & The Catering Dept 84 Gasson Street P O Box 22 002 A former client (who now works as a PA for Christchurch 8140 White Tie), told Tina and Katie how much her T (03) 365 2837 husband loved cheerios. From this canapés F (03) 365 1621 were offered along with heart-shaped fairy E magic@whitetiecatering.co.nz bread. The bride also had a bowl of M&M’s put info@cateringdept.co.nz on each table. However, she only had green in www.whitetiecatering.co.nz her bowl, as they were her favourites. www.cateringdept.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

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03 344 0326 / 021 059 9259 72 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Hospitality | Harrington’s Breweries

Far left: Head brewer Mark White and general manager Tamara Scott.

A better

Left: Three Harringtons — John, his wife Val and son Carl.

brew A cold beer on a hot summer’s day after mowing the lawns, or down at the pub while cheering on the All Blacks has long been a Kiwi staple. But unlike its cousin — the glass of wine — beer has often been thought of as a cheap and not especially tasty drink. However, craft beer sales have been skyrocketing over the last five years, and the demand for it is only increasing, says John Harrington, owner of Harrington’s Breweries. The business was started in 1991 and this year celebrates its 20th birthday. Today it is New Zealand’s largest privately owned brewery. “My family had been in the tavern business for years, so I knew about beer,” John says. “I had a crack at retirement but I didn’t like it. I had long been interested in the brewery side of things, and that’s how we began.” Originally established on the site of the original Wards Brewery in Kilmore St, Harrington’s had only a 1000 litre brewing capacity and hoped to brew 3000 litres a week. But within two weeks of opening, John realised he’d underestimated the brewery’s potential. Urgent alterations soon took the brewing capacity to approximately 12,500 litres a week. In 1993 a second brewery was opened in Ferry Road to help keep up with demand. New tanks were commissioned, with the capacity of brewing batches of 6000 litres

Above: Festivities at the Ferry Rd brewery, celebrating 20 years of crafting fine beers.

per tank, allowing a weekly total of 35,000 litres. In May 1999 Castle Rock Brewery was purchased by Harrington’s in Ferrymead, at the opposite end of Ferry Road. This expanded brewing capacity by a further 30 percent. Today Harrington’s produces over 20 different styles of beers, including limited releases and special editions, an alcoholic ginger beer and a non alcoholic version. It also produces a number of different RTDs (ready to drink premixes) and spirits in bottled form or available when you bring in your own bottle to a store for a refill. There’s several bottle stores, a restaurant in Belfast and a smaller version in Hoon Hay. The bottled beers are available at all leading liquor retailers nationwide and a number are served in restaurants and cafes throughout New Zealand. Another division of the brewery is the export side which exports to Australia, France, Ireland US and Rarotonga. And why are the sales of these high quality beers doing so well? “Because attitudes towards beer are changing,” says Mark White, head brewer. “Young people, the new generation, have travelled to Europe where beer is respected more; they want a quality craft beer. Also, more restaurants, bars and cafes are offering a selection of craft beers. The restaurant/café owner wants to offer the customer a beer of a difference, and not just have the mainstream beers available from the larger breweries. The culture is changing.” Like wine, beer can make a delicious accompaniment to a meal.

Brewer Matt Thomson recommends Harrington’s Lazy Sunday (summer lager) served with a salmon dish. Other beers in the range compliment different meals, such as steak (Saddler lager). Some compliment desserts like tiramisu — Pig & Whistle mild dark goes down especially well. Looking back over the last 20 years, John Harrington says the brewery would not be the success it is without his strong team. He credits brewers Mark White, Matt Thomson and Nathan Crabbe with producing consistently high quality beers. Harrington’s has remained a family business, with his wife Valerie helping in the office and his son Carl working as the general overseer

at the brewery. Carl’s son Mason, the third generation actively involved in the business, produces the RTDs and cider. All up, Harrington’s Breweries employs 75 staff over its many divisions. “Our staff are fantastic,” John Harrington says. “I appreciate and respect them all.” Harrington’s Breweries PO Box 10-149 Phillipstown T (03) 355 5632 F (03) 366 3542 E info@harringtonsbreweries.co.nz www.harringtonsbreweries.co.nz — Advertising Feature

NZ Beer Awards 2011 GOLD Trophy Winner Harrington’s Breweries 1 Normans Road Elmwood, Christchurch

Brewers of craft beers since 1991 www.harringtonsbreweries.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 73

Hospitality | Nor’Wester Café

Success Nor’Wester Awards

n 2011 & 2010 Entertainment Gold Awards n 2006 Canterbury Hospitality Awards Finalist — Fine and Contemporary Dining

n 2009 Cuisine NZ Restaurant of the Year Finalist

n 2009 Canterbury Hospitality Awards

Trish Coleman — Nestle’ Professional CHAD Directors Award of Achievement Winner — Lauren Rowlands, HSI Outstanding Canterbury Food & Beverage Person Gold Medal Status — Greet NZ Outstanding Customer Service Award

n 2008 Cuisine NZ Restaurant of the Year Included in 100 of the Best New Zealand Restaurants

n 2007 Waipara Valley Wine Challenge Winner — Service Award Finalist — Overall Award

n 2007 Canterbury Hospitality Awards

Winner — The Kapiti Outstanding Canterbury Restaurant Award Finalist — Greet NZ Outstanding Customer Service Award

n 2006 Waipara Valley Wine Challenge Finalist — Canterbury Region

Winner — Sarah Turpin, Moffat Canterbury Young Chef of the Year Finalist — Greet NZ Outstanding Customer Service Award

n 2006 New Zealand Best Café Awards, Café Magazine Winner — North Canterbury/Kaikoura Region

n 2004 Lace Fine Wine — Wine List of the Year Awards Recommended — 3 Decanter Rating

n 2004 New Zealand Best Café Awards, Café Magazine Runner-up — Canterbury Region

n 2003 Monteith’s Wild Food Challenge Overall Winner — Christchurch

n 2002 Meadow Mushroom Grande Entrée Award of Excellence

Overall Runner-up — Canterbury Region Winner — Best Overall Dining Experience, Restaurant Section Winner — Best Wine & Food Match, Restaurant Section

n 2001 Casio Retail Systems Best Café Awards, Café Magazine Runner-up — Canterbury Region

n 2001 Rangiora Rotary & Air NZ, Telecom Business Awards Winner — Business 3–10 years old

n NZ Beef & Lamb Award of Excellence 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

n 2000 Corbans Wine & Food Challenge — Christchurch Finalist — Best Course Finalist — Category $75 and under Finalist — Six of the Best

n 1999 Corbans Wine & Food Challenge — Runner-up — Canterbury, Restaurant Section Christchurch Winner — Best Café Challenge Menu n 2002 Canterbury Hospitality Awards Winner — Kylie Walker, Puhoi Valley Cheese Young Waiter Award Finalist — Peoples Choice Outstanding Restaurant Award

n 2001 Montana Wine & Food Challenge

Winner — Best Single Course Wine & Food Match

n 1998 Casio Retail Systems Best Café Awards, Café Magazine

Winner — Coffee Lovers Choice Best Café New Zealand — Public Vote

With mountain views to the north-west and the coast to the east, the relaxed rural town of Amberley is home to many farmers and wine growers. Visitors enjoy Amberley for country pursuits available in the area such as horse riding, surfcasting, wine tasting, river fishing, farm visits, garden tours and the 18-hole golf course right by the beach. Amberley is a great place to find country hospitality, if you’re heading north to Hanmer Springs, Kaikoura or the Waipara Valley wine region or fancy a day-out, make Amberley a stop-off destination. It is home to an award-winning restaurant that has become a favourite with the people of Canterbury. Only 40 minutes north of Christchurch, the Nor’Wester Café is on State Highway One, in the heart of the town. The Nor’Wester Café was founded in 1997 by locals Trish and Tim Coleman, along with Trisha’s brother Paul Gillman and his wife Ann. Their aim was to provide a restaurant that would become the hub of the community.

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“We are pleased to be associated with the Nor Wester”. Phone: (03) 313 6086 2/130 Percival Street, Rangiora www.icfrith.co.nz

Hospitality | Nor’Wester Café

story in rural setting Trish is mindful of the role food plays in our lives. “We aim to restore and slow you down, to enjoy one of life’s great joys, that is, sharing great food, wine and coffee.” Set in a 1920s bungalow, the Nor’Wester’s interior is fresh and inviting, with native timber throughout, and an open fire. Customers can also dine alfresco on the verandah or in the courtyard which features an impressive phoenix palm. This fully licensed restaurant has a long list of award achievements from 1998 to 2010 — 35 in total — covering a range of hospitality competitions and challenges. These awards are testament that Trish and her team understand the value of wine and food partnerships, good service and great coffee.

In addition to the overall management of the restaurant Trish is on the Hurunui Tourism Board, Christchurch Polytech Hospitality Advisory Board and a trustee of newly formed Hurunui 3E Trust. She is also heavily involved in local events such as the Amberely A&P Show, lamb and beef hoof to hook to hotplate competition, Waipara Valley Farmers Market chef challenge and the lamb and pinot dinner which is in its inaugural year.

Fabulous food The Nor’Wester Café caters to its customers from serving take-always coffee, morning and afternoon teas, through to an extensive

On opening in 1997 the Nor’Wester Café hired Andrew Brown as head chef. His creative influence was on the menu until June 2002. He now works at The George Hotel, Christchurch, as an executive chef. Today Sarah Turpin, head chef, and Dylan Amyes, sous chef, are following in Andrew’s footsteps in continuing to provide great food. Sarah arrived at the Nor’Wester in September 2005 to take up her first post as head chef. She did her apprenticeship through the Millennium Hotel, Christchurch, and during that time she earned an opportunity for an overseas stint at the prestigious Gleneagles in Scotland, then down to Bath, England to work for chef Martin Blunous in his two Michelin Star restaurant Blini’s.

The menu has a relaxed style at lunch with items such as: n The sirloin steak sandwich served medium rare, with leaves, garlic aïoli and fries n Fresh fish fillets in tempura batter, fries, water cress, lemon and tartare sauce. Or for those who want a light meal: n Parmesan dumplings with pomegranate molasses n Buttered asparagus with goat’s cheese fromage, lemon and pine nuts. The dinner menu provides a more formal approach by offering:

Coffee has always been a passion of the Nor’Wester and connoisseurs can be guaranteed that it is a destination for that consistent ‘great cup’. Since opening, it has been unable to go past its first choice in beans, Coffee Supreme from Wellington. The beverage list includes a local selection of fine wines from the Waipara Valley, plus further afield. Wine recommendations appear for each menu dish. There is also a range of boutique beers, spirits, and liqueurs, plus many non-alcohol choices. The Nor’Wester Café has recently undergone a facelift. The 14-year-old décor has been updated with a bright, fresh and clean look. “We have decluttered but customers say the café still has its charm,” Trish says.

Nor’Wester Café 95 Main North Rd n Seared scallops with crispy pork and a Amberley 7410 cauliflower purée T (03) 314 9411 n Canter valley duck breast, tomato tatar, E info@norwestercafe.co.nz fondant potato, green beans & olive crumb. www.norwestercafe.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Dylan came to the Nor’Wester Café in 2003. He began kitchen life in a restaurant in Ireland. On returning home, the local freezing works provided him with good butchery skills, which is one of his passions. Commencing as a trainee chef he has excelled through the ranks of the Nor’Wester kitchen brigade because of his commitment, leadership and skill. Professional service, fully qualified chefs and quality food have been continuing goals for the Nor’Wester Café. It supports the local economy by choosing local produce where possible. Throughout its menus it aims for fresh uncomplicated dishes that support the taste and texture of great produce. The menu undergoes major changes at summer and winter seasons. Other seasonal dishes appear as blackboard specials. Although Trish likes to change the menu regularly, there are constants — Canterbury beef, lamb, venison and duck, as well as Akaroa salmon. French, Mediterranean and Asian influences all come into play.

HARLE

The Nor’Wester is now solely owned by Trish and Tim. While an accomplished builder, then coffee maker, Tim’s role today is maintenance of the property and plant. These responsibilities fit well with his health management, having been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 17 years ago.

à la carte brunch, lunch and dinner. The café can seat 50 people inside and another 50 people in the courtyard and on the verandah.

Thirsty work

They wanted to create a restaurant that would endure through commitment to quality produce and the evolution of knowledge and skills. Today the restaurant consistently employs around 15 people, all who either live or have come to live, somewhere between the Waimakariri and Hurunui rivers.

“We have untouchable dishes like the portabello mushrooms with blue cheese and figs. This simple but flavorsome dish has developed quite a following,” Trish says.

WIFFEN

A TA S T E O F E XC E L L E N C E

Harris Meats is proud to be a supplier to the Nor’Wester Cafe. We ensure they get the finest of our North Canterbury beef, lamb and pork products. Ph: 0800 352 435 Butchers Shop, Hall Street, Cheviot Processing Plant, 150 Hurunui Mouth Road, Domett www.harrismeats.co.nz

M A R L B O RO U G H

Proud to support the

Nor’ Wester Cafe Charles Wiffen Wines Limited Ph: (03) 319 2826 | Fax: (03) 319 2829 Email: charleswiffenwines@xtra.co.nz

Open Everyday - from 9am Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner We welcome your bookings Ph. 03 314 9411 95 Main North Road, Amberley Go to www.norwestercafe.co.nz to view menu and beverage list www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 75

Celebrating | Parks Garage

Towing company on Parks Garage is approaching 100 years of business in Christchurch, having grown into the city’s leading towing specialist. The business was established in 1916 by businessman Matthew Park, who also formed the original Lamb and Hayward funeral business around the same time. Parks Garage changed ownership several times during the following decades, with the present owner Rob Gerring taking over in 1995. At this time the company was operating from premises in Salisbury Street that weren’t large enough to meet the needs of the growing business. In 2000 the company moved to larger premises at 95 Ferry Road where it remains today.

The Ferry Road premises includes full workshop capabilities, including hoist and mechanical facilities, ensuring it meets the needs of nearly all of its needs. In addition, its size and security allows Parks to offer onsite storage to clients. While Parks Garage originally operated a panel and paint shop, that service was shut down two years ago in order to concentrate on its core towing business.

The business of towing

Parks Garage currently operates a fleet of 17 vehicles consisting of 13 tow trucks, trailers and support vehicles. With the addition of a new eight-wheeler transport truck, the company is now able to move anything from mobility scooters to fully laden trucks and buses. Rob Gerring’s extensive background in the ski industry, civil engineering and business management brought to the table valuable

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experience and knowledge. Furthermore it has become very much a family business, with Rob’s son Stuart Gerring, who did his time as a panelbeater and tow truck operator, currently in the crucial role of sales and operations manager. Both Rob and Stuart have a hands-on approach. “It’s great to be able to show the boys that although I operate a desk, I feel more at home behind the wheel or controls of a machine. I get the best of both worlds,” says Stuart.

76 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

They are also used for moving cars that have been involved in an accident and are often not suitable to be transported because their wheels have been damaged or torn off.

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Parks Garage owns three specialty cradle trucks that are useful when a vehicle has either been immobilised in a tight carpark or when the driver has lost the key.

The company also operates three doublecab trucks that are great for breakdowns or accidents when the car has more than two Parks Garage employs 13 staff who have a occupants. The double-cab trucks can carry up broad range of skills and experience, including to seven people. a fully qualified diesel mechanic and a team “Another very unique truck we have at Parks of capable drivers. is L0WT0W. The deck of the truck is very The large workshop at Ferry Road offers specialised with its ability to completely off employees a chance to put their skills load its own deck on to the ground, allowing and knowledge to good use servicing low high-performance and classic cars to be the ever-growing fleet and undertaking loaded with ease. You can literally push them mechanical repairs. on once its in place.”

Ooh! That Tickles!

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Celebrating | Parks Garage

track for milestone Machinery service

“We saw an opening in the market. No one in Christchurch really caters for Parks Garage Limited has recently bought mid-sized trucks, buses and campers.” a specialty transport unit to service the The transporter has been in high large amount of machinery in Christchurch demand since it was purchased. following the February earthquake. The transporter was bought after the quake due to With the downturn of work within the cordoned-off CBD, this new the added machinery operating in the city. demand has been welcomed. Sales and operations manager Stuart Gerring says the company saw a greater demand for a Parks Garage has survived many truck of this kind. The eight-wheeler transport ebbs and flows in the industry and economy during its time. truck has a 10 metre deck and a loading capacity of 12.5 tonne. Stuart attributes much of its success in recent years to its Its uses are vast and include carrying anything commitment to professionalism. from cars right through to diggers and loaders. “We work hard to lift the image of the tow “It has an entry angle for loading of eight industry. Our drivers are all in uniform — they’re clean-cut guys,” he says. “It’s all about degrees, which really assists the loading of campervans in regards to their water and fuel lifting the image and our branding. Customer tanks. We are also in the process of building a service is key in a industry like ours. That’s how we’ve been successful over the years.” two-car trailer to accompany this unit, giving it the ability of moving up to four cars at Feature continues on next page » once,” Stuart says.

Parks Garage operates a fleet of 17 vehicles consisting of 13 tow trucks, trailers and support vehicles. The origins of Parks Garage date back to 1916.

We work hard to lift the image of the tow industry. Customer service is key.

Stuart Gerring Parks Garage

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 77

Celebrating | Parks Garage

Improved mechanical services

The team at Parks Garage has been working hard to grow its mechanical workshop, which has been operating for the past six months. While initially the company hired a fulltime diesel mechanic to service its own fleet, it soon found itself offering mechanical services to its breakdown customers. Mechanical services are available around the clock. Parks Garage’s large and comprehensive workshop facility allows staff to work on anything from motorbikes to heavy trucks. “It’s a growing component of the business and we’re wanting to develop that side a lot further,” sales and operations manager Stuart Gerring says. “We offer a full mechanical service for every type of vehicle.”

Fact File

p Parks Garage has been operating in Christchurch since 1916. p Parks Garage operates a fleet of 17 vehicles consisting of 13 tow trucks, trailers and support vehicles.

p The company owns several specialty trucks, including three double-cab trucks and a lowtow truck for low-sitting vehicles.

p Parks Garage undertook critical work removing vehicles from Christchurch’s CBD after the February earthquake. p Mechanical services are available around the clock. p The company undertakes specialist towing and vehicle removal for the New Zealand Police.

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www.rosiez.co.nz Congratulations to Parks Garage on their Centenary 78 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Celebrating | Parks Garage

of education for road users. The February earthquake added to the difficulties, as the bus lane rules were suspended for a period, confusing some motorists.

Police work Parks has a long-term contract with the New Zealand Police for the removal of vehicles following serious accidents or cars of interest in a forensic matter. Since gaining the contract for the greater Christchurch area from Rakaia to North Canterbury, Parks has operated a specialty Hiab truck to provide these services. The lifting frame at the end of the Hiab crane arm can be rotated and stabilised and it is able to lift a vehicle without touching it, meaning forensics or crucial accident indicators will not be compromised.

Long-standing towing contracts

The company works for all major insurance companies in the event of an accident.

One of the long-term contracts is with the Automobile Association (AA) for breakdowns. Parks Garage has been towing for the AA for many years and is one of only two companies that tow for the organisation in the Christchurch area . “The relationship with AA is highly valued by Parks Garage,” says sales and operations manager Stuart Gerring.

This work can involve towing directly from the accident site, or moving the vehicle later on if it has been written off.

Parks Garage has three double-cab trucks that are primarily used for the AA contract, particularly in circumstances where customers

Parks Garage operates a 24-hour breakdown and recovery service and manages a number of significant contracts throughout the greater Christchurch area.

need to be transported with their car. This provides an even greater service to customers who do not always have the capability or time to make their own arrangements when their car unexpectedly breaks down.

Parks operates another specialist truck that assists with the police contact. It has a deck that offloads onto the road and is particularly useful to remove high-performance cars or low-sitting vehicles, which can be pushed onto the deck.

Stuart says that the truck is one of only a few Parks Garage also highly values its contract with the Christchurch City Council, undertaking in the country. “It caters for the boy racer cars in town, which are low. But the boy racer towing for illegal parking. work has slowed down since the earthquake Stuart says this work has been particularly — the roads are too bumpy.” busy since the introduction of bus lanes throughout the city, which has been a matter

Feature continues on next page

• ALUMINIUM • BRASS • BATTERIES • CANS • CARS • COPPER • STAINLESS STEEL • STEEL Sims Pacific Metals would like to congratulate Parks on their centenary and look forward to working together over the next 100 years.

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Celebrating | Parks Garage

Urgent earthquake assistance The February earthquake brought out the best in Cantabrians, with the team at Parks Garage working long hours to help in Christchurch’s recovery effort.

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Sales and operations manager Stuart Gerring says immediately after the quake struck at 12.51pm, staff were sent home to check on their families, with no one giving a thought about the potential work ahead. “The next day started rather slowly with the aftermath setting in, the reality of what had happened and what had not yet dawned on us, as people of Christchurch and as a company,” he says. Parks was lucky to have no injuries among its staff, with the majority of their homes mostly intact. “The phone did eventually start ringing on the 23rd and I don’t think it stopped for the remainder of that day.”

Late in the day on February 23, Stuart Gerring received a call from Police Communications asking Parks Garage to assist with the rescue effort at the CTV building. They needed cars moved out of the way so they could get cranes and diggers in. Stuart arrived on site to be briefed on the situation and instructed to notify family where he was. The New Zealand Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team at that stage were in charge. They issued Stuart his instructions and helped him as much as they could. “As I worked pulling the cars out, a lot of the guys were yelling at me with support and cheering me on. Every now and again an alarm would

go off, we had to shut off all the trucks and diggers so the rescuers could listen for survivors.” There was another alarm that sensed seismic activity and gave a warning. “When I look back on those hours, it sounds funny but at that time it was very much a rescue operation. All in all it was a very surreal place to be and once I had completed the task it did start to set in what we were all there for. So many people involved with such a big task.” Stuart received another request a few days later of a different nature. This time he was asked for all the cars to be moved from the PGC building and then stored. Parks managed to send eight units and a forklift along, while it continued with its normal workload outside of the cordon.

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Stuart liaised with the Welsh USAR team to devise a plan to extract cars out of the rear carpark.

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Due to the buildings severel y damaged and precarious condition, it was decided that the USAR team would make a make-shift ramp so the Parks trucks could back in over a nib wall and be loaded by forklift. Staff worked long into the night moving some 30-odd cars.

Ph (03) 982 4862 |

“The team were great and knew that this was the start of some long days to come.”

80 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

469 St Asaph Street, Phillipstown, Christchurch

Celebrating | Parks Garage

After the urgent earthquake vehicle recovery work was complete, Parks Garage was asked to remove thousands of cars from Christchurch’s CBD. In the week following the February earthquake, systems were put in place for the recovery effort within the red zone, which was rolled out in four stages. The first stage was clearing priority streets so that diggers and dump trucks could have access to clear fallen buildings. Once the roads were clear, the Parks Garage team started on the crushed vehicles within the roading network. Crushed vehicles were transported to Turners Auction’s temporary holding yard in Halswell. They then moved onto open-air carparks, transporting unscathed vehicles back to Hagley Park and into the Armagh St carpark, where the Police controlled their release back to the public. The last stage, and possibly the most challenging, was carpark buildings and under-ground car parks. This work was labour intensive and involved the use of trolley jacks, dolly wheels and a specialised rig on one of Parks Garage’s fork-lifts. It was often done in 2-3 feet of water. Some cars were so mouldy inside after being flooded that staff had to wear overalls and masks.

The last three days in the CBD were in the Wilson building next to the Grand Chancellor. It took three days to get 20 cars out using a forklift with a lifting rig. In the end, Parks Garage moved hundreds of cars over a two-month period.

Demanding and difficult work Parks Garage sales and operations manager Stuart Gerring says the biggest challenge with the earthquake work was keeping up with the Police demand. “The Police’s resources are a lot bigger than ours. We had a staff of eight, who didn’t stop that whole time. They were working constantly for long hours. We took on some extra staff and we did have other contractors helping us deal with the demand.” Parks Garage was back in the city a couple of months ago removing about 30 cars from the Government Life building, which was initially deemed unsafe, but was later cleared by an engineer for removal of the vehicles. “It has been such a busy time for us all and it’s not until now that I reflect on what we achieved as a team in such a short time,” says Stuart. “It wasn’t just our operators with increased work load; our office staff were inundated with hundreds of phone calls every day from customers trying to locate their vehicles.

“This was a very stressful time as we had our normal operation running as per usual, but we succeeded in reuniting many people with their cars and personal belongings.”

Parks Garage Limited 95 Ferry Road Christchurch T (03) 366 7615 F (03) 366 4758 — Advertising Feature

… a lot of the guys were …cheering me on. Every now and again an alarm would go off, we had to shut off all the trucks and diggers so the rescuers could listen for survivors.

Stuart Gerring Parks Garage Diane Watts Accountancy proudly supports and congratulates Parks Garage Limited, Christchurch’s leading towing specialist.

Committed to helping new and small businesses become profitable big business by providing a friendly and experienced accounting service for a resonable fee. Phone: 03 352 2086 Mobile: 027-357 9641 Fax: 03 352 8937 Email: diane.accounts@xtra.co.nz

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 81

Celebrating | Heritage Productions

Picture

perfect Stephen Keegan has perseverance in bucket loads — three decades in the photography industry are testament to the success of his business, Heritage Productions. Ingenious marketing and a niche market have played significant roles in this success, as has strong business acumen and teamwork. The Heritage team is a close-knit team of seven. Office manager Linda Cassidy has been with the company for 27 years. Stephen’s son Danny is the IT expert/photographer and daughter Amy works part-time to supplement her own clothing brand. The proficient photographers are backed up by an efficient team at the headquarters who handle the production and final distribution of the photos. Established in 1981, Heritage Productions is celebrating 30 years at the forefront of the South Island photography industry. But the popular school photography company is the one giving the presents this year. Since term two, Heritage Productions has been giving away 3000 free class photographs to schools in some of the worst hit areas.

throughout the years,” Keegan explains. “We had minor damage to our premises and wanted to do what we could to brighten up some of the families who weren’t so lucky.”

“We wanted to give back to the children and the families who have supported us

Keegan had been working as a photographer for several years when

photo & video I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Photo & Video is proud to print the fantastic images from Heritage Productions

We also do other cool stuff like camera repairs, video tape transfers, prints off slides, passport photos, and watch batteries, we even sell the odd camera.

Shop 9 Merivale Mall, 189 Papanui Road, Christchurch Phone: (03) 355 7534 | www.photo.co.nz 82 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

… it’s important children and their families look back at these years as being a happy time — that needs to be reflected in the pictures. he was approached by Halswell School to photograph its pupils. “I recognised the importance of having a strong niche market and after having such an enjoyable time photographing Halswell School, I realised that school photography was ideal. “I began canvassing the schools around Canterbury and realised it would be viable to run South Island-wide.” That year Heritage Productions photographed five schools. Just three years later, that number had reached fifty.

Recognition Heritage understood early on the often unrecognised work that school secretaries play in the organisational effectiveness of photo day, with the orders being placed and the correct photos being delivered to families. He lets the secretaries know how much he appreciates their efforts by organising annual lunches where they can gather, share and talk. The Heritage name is also in the minds of the principals thanks to his sponsorship programme. “Heritage Productions was the first organisation to sponsor the Canterbury and Otago Principals’ Associations annual conference. This ensures our name is in front of the key decision makers all the time.

Every business, regardless of size, needs a tailored fit... ...when choosing a partner to provide printing and document management solutions. For a printing and document technology solution tailored to fit your business, contact Gary Burton, Area Manager on 03 371 2707

Stephen Keegan Heritage Productions

“When it comes to selecting a strong reputable photography company, our name is what they associate that with.” When it comes to the actual job, it’s certainly not just a point and shoot job, at a Heritage Productions photoshoot. “When you’re working with kids, you have to get them in the right frame of mind. Whether that be by telling jokes or pulling faces, above all else you must treat children with respect. Respect is the key to a happier photoshoot.” The photos Heritage Productions produces are important keepsakes for generations to come. “These photographs will be around for years to come and it’s important with school photos that children and their families can look back at these years as being a happy time — that needs to be reflected in the pictures. We take the happiest photos in the South Island.” Heritage Productions PO Box 5265 Christchurch T (03) 365 3554 E support@heritagephotosnz.com www.heritagephotosnz.com — Advertising Feature

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 83

Business Development | Beaver Trees and Landscaping / Fit 4 Business

Branching out brings dividends Well kept and attractive grounds can transform a property, making it a nicer place to be and adding value as well. It’s something Cantabrians are well aware of, as evidenced by the success of Beaver Trees and Landscaping.

The company’s expansion into landscaping two years ago has proven a big success, with the business now able to offer complete residential and commercial packages. Beaver Trees undertakes a full range of tree and landscaping services, which are in big demand throughout the city. The origins of Beaver Tree Service date back about 35 years, with head beaver Bryce Robb buying the company in 1998. He owned another tree pruning business, which was merged with Beaver Trees. Today Robb heads a team of up to 20 staff from premises in Halswell Junction Road, which is currently being extended to accommodate the growing business.

Comprehensive services

The skilled team at Beaver Trees and Landscaping can undertake a wide range of tree work, including pruning, thinning and reductions, tree maintenance, hedge trimming, stump grinding, tree removal and planting and arboricultural consultations. The company is a member of the New Zealand Arboricultural Association and trains its own staff, with several members currently undertaking training at both entry and advanced levels.

Landscaping designs can be completed in any style.

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The landscaping service was added more than two years ago. “We were getting a lot of phone calls about landscaping, so we decided to do it ourselves,” Robb says. “We started off with two landscaping staff and now we’re up to a team of four, including a designer.” Beaver Landscaping offers a total landscaping service, from design through to project management and completion. “We do hard landscaping and everything from putting a pathway out to a clothesline right through to doing a large property from scratch.” The landscaping team is committed to serving customers with the same values and principles they have experienced with Beaver Tree Service. They aim to stand out from other companies by being involved in all stages of landscaping, from concept design right through to completion.

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84 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Congratulates Beaver Tree Services Limited on their win and is proud to be their Legal Advisors

Stephen Jeffery for Business and Commercial Advice Tel: (03) 353 8050 DD Email: stephen.jeffery@laneneave.co.nz www.laneneave.co.nz

Landscaping designs can be completed in any style, including complementing a contemporary home, a formal Europeanstyle garden or revamping part of an existing landscape. “The landscaping division is going well and it’s becoming very profitable,” says Robb. “We’re currently looking for more team members and we’re very busy.” Beaver Trees and Landscaping can take the stress out of any sized job for its clients by offering a complete project management service. The project management team will organise all contractors from the beginning of the project, including quotes, right through to completion of the project. Beaver Landscaping is currently offering a free initial consultation with a landscape designer, which is valued at $184. “This is a great way to get a feel for what we can achieve for you in your landscape, taking into account all aspects of your lifestyle requirements and environmental conditions.”

Design collaboration

Beaver Trees and Landscaping has recently formed an alliance with Ben McMaster, a leading Christchurch landscape designer. “Ben is a prominent landscape designer in Christchurch and has been for some years,” Robb says. “Our new landscaping company, Beaver Landscaping, is only two years old. However, we bring the experience of running a successful tree business which our clients have trusted for years. We have continued the same level of service and commitment with our landscape company.” Robb believes the alliance with Ben McMaster will make it one of the leading landscaping design and construction companies in Christchurch. “This will give clients confidence that their landscape project will be of the highest quality and workmanship.” Beaver Landscaping and McMaster are working on plans for a large garden display at the 2012 Ellerslie International Flower Show. The 800sqm garden in the retail section will be set to the theme of rebuilding Christchurch.

Business Development | Beaver Trees and Landscaping / Fit 4 Business

This (best overall company under 50 employees in the world) is a very emotional win and an extraordinary journey these past five years.

Bryce Robb Beaver Tree and Landscaping / Fit 4 Business Head beaver Bryce Robb.

Success in tough times Beaver Trees and Landscaping has achieved what most businesses might think is impossible — being named the best overall company under 50 employees in the world at the Business Excellence Awards in Florida. The Christchurch company entered the New Zealand business coaching award two years ago and was named runner up in the marketing section. “This time we were quite blown away to win the award for the best company in the world under 50 employees,” owner Bryce Robb says. “What it means is that all the work we’ve done as a team has paid off. It’s a team effort.”

“This is a very emotional win and an extraordinary journey these past five years. This is just the start of this journey,” Robb says. In addition to its fiscal achievements, Beaver Trees stood out for its excellent customer service and culture. Robb believes the key to success is investing in staff. “We set goals for them every six months and not just goals within the company; it’s also goals in their own personal lives.”

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The 2011 Business Excellence Awards are exclusively tailored for small and mediumsized businesses and were awarded in 16 categories, ranging from best start up to best overall company. Feature continues on next page

Investing in staff

One of his goals for Beaver Trees and Landscaping is to continue to grow the business, which predominantly operates One of the key reasons for Beaver Trees and throughout the greater Christchurch area, Landscaping’s win is the growth in its financial although can undertake jobs further a field if performance throughout the economic required. recession and Christchurch earthquakes. “We’re a very proactive company and we go Over the past year, the company has looking for work,” Robb says. increased its overall sales, hitting a major “We market fairly strongly and we don’t milestone in sales for the first time in its wait for the work to come to us. We market history. This accomplishment is even more when the market is slow, such as when we’re exceptional considering the state of the economy and natural disasters in Christchurch. coming into winter and going out of winter.

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“My plan is to really just keep expanding the trees and landscaping divisions.”

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0800 CONCUT | www.CONCUT.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 85

Business Development | Beaver Trees and Landscaping / Fit 4 Business

The key things are we have a lot of fun, we base our business around having a strong culture, and we don’t employ people that don’t fit into the culture.

Bryce Robb Beaver Tree and Landscaping / Fit 4 Business

A positive working culture Working as a team is a critical focus for business owner Bryce Robb, who attributes Beaver Trees and Landscaping’s success to the efforts of everyone involved. “It’s a huge team effort,” Robb says. “We do a lot of team alignment work — we don’t just send the guys out to work.” The Christchurch company employs up to 20 skilled and dedicated staff members, who are selected on their enthusiasm, willingness to learn and ability to fit in. “We have very good skilled staff. One of the key things is I’ve employed people to do their jobs in their area a lot better than I can,” Robb says. “We measure our KPIs. I attribute the success of the business to delegating roles to people who are suited to the roles. I’m not very good at being organised so I employ people who are good at organising.”

Beaver Trees and Landscaping’s focus is to keep improving the business through offering excellent workmanship with unprecedented service. This includes changing its service with technology advancements and advancing its personnel skill levels at all levels of the company, from labourer to management. “We don’t ever want to become a stagnant business that is not improving systems, knowledge, learning and customer service,” says Robb. “We also focus on goal setting and personal development — learning more about the business and how it works and surrounding ourselves with key people. Ongoing upskilling is also an important part, once people show their commitment to the company.” The other core focus for Beaver Trees and Landscaping is making sure it has a well-developed culture within this team. This has become a part of the company’s core values, which in turn are passed on to

Growing and marketing containerised trees & shrubs Deciduous Evergreen and NZ Native

The skilled team at Beaver Trees and Landscaping can undertake a wide range of tree work.

employees. These values involve working hard, having integrity, honesty and respect, being committed to the company and its clients, and having a positive attitude.

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“The key things are we have a lot of fun, we base our business around having a strong culture, and we don’t employ people that don’t fit into the culture,” Robb says.

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Giving back to the community

Good gardening advice is our hallmark

The company also works hard to give back to the community in various ways.

Visit our website allwood.co.nz and facebook page for great photos, deals and lists of discounted trees OPEN 7 DAYS - Monday to Friday - 9.00am to 5.00pm, Saturday & Sunday - 10.00am to 4.00pm 366 Halswell Junction Road, Halswell, Christchurch 8025 - Phone: 03 349 9240

Beaver Trees and Landscaping recently helped install a sculpture at Manning Intermediate School, following a fire at the school in 2009

which destroyed its administration area and hall. The sculpture incorporates a section of structural steel from the destroyed hall. “The fire was a devastating blow to the school and the community, and as the school has been a loyal client to this company, we wanted to assist it to get back on their feet by offering creative skills at no charge to design and create a special garden,” Robb says. Beaver Trees and Landscaping also offers financial sponsorship and assistance on various conservation projects, has donated wood to the Salvation Army and is assisting in Radio Network Special Children’s Christmas Party 2011.

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86 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Business Development | Beaver Trees and Landscaping / Fit 4 Business

One of the points of difference… we follow up with a phone call and ask the customer how they found our service.

Bryce Robb Beaver Tree and Landscaping / Fit 4 Business

Beaver Landscaping offers a total landscaping service, from design through to project management and completion.

Quality is critical Beaver Trees and Landscaping undertakes a comprehensive quality assurance programme to ensure all projects, whether large or small, are completed to the highest possible standard. “One of the points of difference we have to most companies in general is we follow up with a phone call after we have done the job and ask the customer how they found our service,” head beaver Bryce Robb says. “We also audit five percent of our work. If there is an issue with a job we’ll go back to the site and audit it straight away. “Customer service is very important,” he says. Beaver Trees and Landscaping prides itself on being tidy and efficient. Every job will be done efficiently in a designated time frame with minimal

disruption to the customer, with each site left in a tidy condition. Beaver Trees is OSH approved, meaning it carries out safe work practices, has regular hazard checks and well-maintained gear, all of which minimises risk to the public and their property.

Beaver Trees and Landscaping offers a unique company satisfaction policy to ensure every customer is completely satisfied with its workmanship. “These factors all add up to our guarantee to you, of a great job. We are

determined to have an ongoing relationship with our clients.”

Feature continues on next page

The company is fully insured, so if in the unfortunate situation there is some damage at a customer’s property, it will be covered by the company and its Broadform Public Liability Insurance through NZI Insurance.

Courteous approach Staff endeavour to be polite and courteous at all times. “Before we start a job our staff will always introduce themselves. Our staff are very obliging and will go out of their way to make you feel at ease,” Robb says.

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Call Justin Harper 03 388 4698 027 626 2228 justbobcats@xtra.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 87

Business Development | Beaver Trees and Landscaping / Fit 4 Business

The key to my success has been surrounding myself with highly energetic people — people who want to achieve more in life and business.

Bryce Robb Beaver Tree and Landscaping / Fit 4 Business

The importance of goal setting Bryce Robb is passionate about his new business venture, Fit 4 Business, which he hopes to expand internationally. Fit 4 Business was launched in early October and is a networking group for people based around goal setting and achievement. “The point is to expand people’s business, to set goals and achieve them at a higher level,” Robb says.

Above: Beaver Trees and Landscaping can take the stress out of any sized job for its clients by offering a complete project management service.

“I have achieved my goal of owning a successful company that runs itself with Beaver Trees and Landscaping. The key to my success has been surrounding myself with highly energetic people — people who want to achieve more in life and business. These people focus on specific goals. They are also physically fit and ready for anything. I started Fit 4 Business to share this experience. By joining one of our groups of high-energy business people you can fast track your life and business.” Fit 4 Business is based on a culture of full commitment and attaining goals through the development of positive beliefs and habits for greater results in both business and personal wellbeing. Robb launched Fit 4 Business to share his unique approach to building vibrant and productive businesses, which are staffed by teams that have fun and deliver results — businesses that share and learn from each other. “One of the key things with my journey over the last five years is I’ve had a lot of business coaching and done a lot of self improvement,” he says. “Ambitious people recognise the importance of physical and mental stimulation, and the value of support and accountability toward achieving goals. Fit 4 Business gives you a regular structure to focus on these keys areas and accelerate your performance.”

Business and fitness focus Fit 4 Business brings together like-minded business people in a weekly breakfast meeting, which focuses on business improvement, goal setting, business

Left: Bryce Robb has recently launched Fit 4 Business, which is based around goal setting and achievement.

education and networking to provide the stimulation and energy to achieve business growth and outcomes. The meeting runs for an hour and gives members the opportunity to share their knowledge and experience in an open forum with different topics of interest covered each week. They discuss educational topics, the achievement of business or fitness milestones, challenges and developments, and are updated on group fitness trainings and events. Once a month a guest speaker who has had outstanding success in their field speaks on relevant business or fitness topics. The fitness sessions are aimed to raise mental performance, increase stamina, speed up decision making and reduce stress. They are designed for members to reach individual targets and offer challenges and support along the way. Fitness sessions are held at Hagley Park on Saturdays at 8am, with other sessions on week days.

Grow

your career

Members put up a financial stake through an “accountability buddy” and select a charity to give money to if they don’t achieve their goals. “It means you’re more likely to achieve our goals,” says Robb. Robb is working hard on his own goals to grow Fit 4 Business and is already receiving positive feedback from the business community. “My long-term goal is to have it go worldwide. I’m really focusing on Fit 4 Business now and I can see it expanding quite quickly.” Beaver Trees and Landscaping / Fit 4 Business 744 Halswell Junction Road Hornby Christchurch 8042 Free phone (0800) 422 328 T (03) 344 6223 F (03) 344 6227 www.beavertree.co.nz www.fit4business.co.nz — Advertising Feature

New Zealand Horticulture Industry Training Organisation (Inc)

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88 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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0800 467 844

Business Development | TotalPos Solutions

Supporting Canterbury businesses 24/7

Once a complex bartering system determined how we bought and sold commodity products. Today, a piece of plastic and a four-digit pin is all it takes. The industry behind that piece of plastic is one of constant innovation. From manual cash registers to highly technological point of sale systems, Total POS Solutions is at the forefront of that innovation. Established in 1989 and then known as The Cash Register Doctor Ltd, was formed to do just what the name implies — repair and sell cash registers. However due to the very nature of the industry, it wasn’t long before the company had diversified into advanced cash register sales, Eftpos terminals and PC point of sale (POS) systems providing comprehensive management of stock, membership, loyalty and financial control. By 2000 the company had grown to be the largest specialised point of sale provider in the South Island. In 2007 the company was renamed Total POS Solutions to reflect the focus on all aspects of point of sale equipment, including IdealPOS software and Casio cash registers. In 2008 the specialist provider Eftpos South Ltd was incorporated into Total POS Solutions. In 2010 the business of Remedy Group, supplier of Quest and SwiftPOS systems, was purchased.

Throughout the challenges of the past year, Total POS Solutions has been supporting Canterbury businesses through mobile Eftpos, temporary terminals and flexible contracts, according to Sales Manager Craig Daken. “We are playing our part in the rebuild of the city, supporting that rebuild in any way we can”. “We are open and fully functional, in fact better than before. The support of our suppliers has been a major factor in getting us back up and running after the earthquakes. One of our main partners, IdealPOS, have been very supportive in ensuring that our customers’ IdealPOS systems could be reactivated and able to be put back into operation — getting their POS system running in a major part of restarting their business.” Today the company has a staff of 13 point of sale professionals and on-the-road technicians dedicated to providing customers with a full range of products tailored to their needs, with comprehensive after sales service and support to ensure the systems the company sells keep pace with business growth and changing requirements. “People see Eftpos purely as a consumable product, even within the industry companies see Eftpos as a product they can sell and only offer remote support if anything goes wrong. What sets us aside from many of our competitors is our focus on on-site service.

“Having experienced and knowledgeable technicians available to provide superior support to our clients really sets us apart. Our size means we can choose which products we support and that we are always able to support our customers even when we have The company has since had another significant one or more staff off work for any reason.” change, with the earthquake related move Total POS Solutions supplies a range of from its home next to Natcoll House on “best of breed” systems including IdealPOS, Kilmore Street to 144 St Asaph Street.

SwiftPOS, Quest, Casio, and Microsoft RMS to businesses which include owner-operators, franchises, schools, government, charities and chains in the retail, hospitality and service sectors. Sales staff regularly visit customers in Canterbury, the West Coast and elsewhere in the South Island. “We deal with a vast range of businesses from the local SME through to the large national corporates,” he says. “We provide customers with a lot more than just software and equipment — we work closely with them to identify the best solution for their requirements and budget, then we program their new equipment and train them how to use and maintain their new system. After installation we provide support and service for everything we sell, including 24/7 phone and on-site support.” Technology is changing rapidly and Total POS Solutions keeps up with changes in order to offer clients the latest products and technology. “It’s an exciting industry to be involved in. With the constant innovation and change we get to witness the advent of some of the latest technology into both the retail and hospitality sectors,” he says. “With Touchscreen systems like the IdealPOS point of sale, our customers have custom packages including restaurant table maps and bill splitting (hospitality), stock control as well

as loyalty and promotional options to fit their business. There is also an expectation from their customers and staff to have the latest technology. An example is the new tablet (iPad) for POS systems, which is a fantastic way to take orders and process on the go.” The Eftpos industry is also in a constant state of change as a result of the VISA/Mastercard industry standards being modified on a regular basis, many businesses now do not wish to own their Eftpos equipment. “About 90 percent of our Eftpos clients now choose to rent their terminals. This allows them to upgrade on a regular basis and ensures equipment will get repaired if it breaks down — less responsibility and more freedom.” And what does the future hold for Eftpos and Point of Sale? “We see new ways of payments being introduced — contactless technology being available on a wide range of devices such as iPhones, Eftpos and credit cards so all equipment will need upgrading. We see more and more interest in ‘Cloud’ applications for POS which means businesses can take their business wherever they go.” Total POS Solutions 144 St Asaph Street Christchurch T (03) 366 1090 www.totalpos.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Idealpos specialises in Point of Sale Solutions for a wide range of industries including Hospitality, Retail, Hotels and Clubs, Cafes and Take-aways - Helping them increase their business profits and sales.

Idealpos is a proud partner of

Totalpos Solutions Supporting South Island businesses since 1989

www.idealpos.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 89

Business Development | On The Spot Signs

Grabbing your attention The information age might still only be in its infancy, but the daily volume of messages and images we’re bombarded with seems to be growing exponentially. What this means is getting your message noticed is becoming more and more difficult due to the increasing volume of background information radiation. So instead of yelling louder, what you need to do is yell smarter, and this is where On The Spot Signs can help. The right combination of words and graphics, blended just so, might mean the difference between delivering something that hits your target market square on the snoz, or getting lost in the crowd. Mike Harris, who bought the business in 1995, says the right sign can make quite a difference when it comes to getting your message out there. The simple act of placing a logo on a company car can do wonders, or revamping signage around a business premise can also make an impact. “We have 16 years of signwriting experience and have worked with many different people and companies. We can provide almost anything when it comes to sign writing, printing and graphics. “We pride ourselves in our motto ‘write first time’ and we always go the extra mile to ensure that we live up to it.”

Vehicle graphics If you want your message to move, then On The Spot Signs can provide graphics for any vehicle you like, be it a truck, van, car, trailer or boat and it’s an easy, cost effective way to promote your business.

Labels State of the art digital printing facilities means stickers and labels of any quantity can be quickly and cost efficiently produced, and stickers can be cut to any shape you require.

Window graphics A smart, stylish and clearly messaged sticker in any window is the perfect way to let people know what your business does and the services you provide. With a single glance your potential customers will know exactly what you offer.

Canvas print Think about how effective it might be have your digital photos stretched to any size on a woven canvas. A marvellous marketing tool that’s simple and easy.

Pavement signs Got people walking by? Well then a pavement sign might be just the ticket. Signs can be made from plastic, steel, aluminium or timber and supplied blank or digitally printed.

Company signage Be it for the front of your building, a warehouse, office or home business, it just makes sense to let your customers know where you are with signage that stands out.

Digital print On The Spot Signs can provide a huge range of display solutions and graphics, from stickers to complete corporate rebranding including vehicle livery, signage, window graphics, and prints. And there is no minimum quantity, so this means even single prints aren’t a problem.

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On The Spot Signs 13 Nursery Road Christchurch T (03) 366 7133 www.otss.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Business Development | Hazeldean Business Park

earthquake as they wanted a low rise and safe building. Others have followed including insurance companies, law firms and government departments such as the Ministry of Health.

Breathing commercial life into Addington Businesses in Christchurch’s CBD have been well and truly shaken up since the February earthquake. The rush to re-establish in new premises has led to an influx of companies migrating to the city fringes. And it’s here where they have injected life and investment into the suburbs — some of which were in critical commercial decline. One area that has benefited more than most is Addington. This increasingly cosmopolitan area is now home to some great cafes and quirky shops, as well as the impressive $80 million Hazeldean Business Park. Built on the site of the former PDL factory, the initial phase of Hazeldean was completed in 2009. Auckland-based Sumich Architects were responsible for the overall design which draws inspiration from European suburban office parks. The offices are low rise, with no more than five levels, and feature piled foundations which helped ensure the buildings performed exceptionally well in the earthquakes. Hazeldean features an on-site café set around a central piazza, and plenty of on-site parking. The 550 space car-park building makes it convenient and attractive for businesses.

Easily accessed from all areas of the city, Hazeldean is just 12 kilometres from Christchurch International Airport. Shopping and services are conveniently close-by, while Hagley Park puts sports and recreation right on the doorstep. Hazeldean Business Park was 60 percent occupied prior to the February earthquake. Less than four days later Hazeldean was 100 percent full. Calder Stewart Industries is the proud owner and developer of Hazeldean Business Park. Kevin Arthur, development manager of Calder Stewart Industries feels Hazeldean offers high quality office space with competitive rents and convenience. “Our tenants and their clients love the convenience of the location and the abundance of parking.

Arthur says that the foundations for the first new building are already in the ground, and there are advanced discussions with prospective tenants. “We have calls each week with people looking for premises. Some would traditionally be in the CBD but recognise it might be one complete lease cycle before viable options are available to them. They see Hazeldean as a great alternative offering high quality accommodation for their staff and clients.” Businesses such as Forsyth Bar on Colombo Street came to Hazeldean after the February

Calder Stewart Industries specialises in industrial, rural and commercial construction. Calder Stewart has been a recognised leader in the New Zealand building and construction industry for more than a generation. Having a workforce of over 300 people, Calder Stewart has the expertise and resources to deliver a wide range of technically demanding projects spanning the industrial, commercial and agricultural construction markets. Arthur highlights that the earthquake in Christchurch was devastating and the loss is tragic, but he feels Cantabrians are renowned for their pioneering spirit and can-do attitude and this will help tremendously for the rebuild in Christchurch. “We are investing in the future of Christchurch. Hazeldean has come through the earthquake intact, it offers a safe and inviting environment and we are ready to move forward with our next development,” he says. Hazeldean Business Park Kevin Arthur, Development Manager Calder Stewart Developments T 021 352 532 www.hazeldean.co.nz — Advertising Feature

“Not everyone needs to be in the city centre. Hazeldean offers an out-of-town convenience but it still is only an eight minute walk from the CBD,” Arthur says. On completion Hazeldean will have six office buildings providing close to 25,000sqm of office space and accommodating up to 1500 people. Calder Stewart Industries has recently announced the next office building is under development with completion expected early in 2013. No 2 Hazeldean Road will be a four level building with floor plates of approximately 900sqm.

REBUILDING CANTERBURY TOGETHER

MWH has been an anchor tenant of the Hazeldean Business Park since March 2010. Our Christchurch-based team of 277 includes 120 staff working for the MWH Mainzeal Joint Venture which has partnered with Vero, AA Insurance and SIS Insurance to help with the rebuilding of Canterbury. 6 Hazeldean Road, Addington PO Box 13249, Christchurch Ph: 0800 800 383 www.mwhmainzeal.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 91

Business Development | Southern Business Machines

Machines made for business Southern Business Machines has been supplying high-quality office equipment to Canterbury businesses for more than 30 years and is still leading the industry today. The company was established in 1976, with directors Des Haines and John Otte employing nine staff from their offices in Ferry Road. It specialises in office equipment, including digital copiers, laser printers, faxes, scanning and multifunction office equipment. Southern Business Machines became a Canon dealer in 2006, which saw the company grow to become Canon New Zealand’s largest privately owned dealership.

The HP Laserjet Pro CM1415 colour multi-function printer series features a colour touch screen, reducing both operating and maintenance times.

We’re locally owned and operated and we have 14 service agents nationwide. We supply equipment throughout the country.

Des Haines Southern Business Machines

office equipment and supplies sales - rent, lease or buy servicing and maintenance

Southern Business Machines offers comprehensive support and service for all major brands. Its experienced service department can repair most equipment, with the company stocking a large range of spare parts and consumables. The service department caters for the smallest Canon desktop printer through to the largest high-end multi-functioning office equipment. Southern Business Machines has been a Brother warranty agent since 1985 and has been a supplier and service agent for Ricoh for 35 years, specialising in older Ricoh copiers, printers and faxes. Being independently owned and operated means the company can be flexible in the extended range of equipment it services. “We’re locally owned and operated and we have 14 service agents nationwide,” says Haines. “We supply equipment throughout the country and we have agents nationwide to service those customers. A few of our largest clients have more machines outside Christchurch than they do here.” Technology is continually changing, with office equipment now much more IT orientated, which forces the technical team to continually upskill.

Canon makes up about 70 percent of its business today, with other specialty brands including Ricoh, Hewlett Packard, Kyocera, Brother, Pitney Bowes “Four of our technicians have had more than 20 years in the industry each — that’s a and Dictaphone. lot of experience. Combined with the backing Otte and Haines have been involved in and full support of Canon New Zealand, the photocopier industry for 32 and 22 SBM offers unparalleled service throughout years respectively. Both have an extensive New Zealand.” service and sales background and ensure a hands-on approach to office equipment in the Success and growth Canterbury region. Despite the economic recession and earthquakes, Southern Business Machines has Haines says Southern Business Machines year on year continued to grow and is looking is focussed on finding solutions for all at taking on some additional sales staff. business situations. “If it is a home office, small-to-medium business or a multi-national corporation, we can tailor a solution to each individual’s needs,” he says.

Through its new website, www.sbm.co.nz, the company is also boosting interest in its range of high-quality products. This site provides 24/7 access to product information, while enabling its clients to log service calls, order supplies, request quotes and load meter readings any time at their convenience

“Whether it is updating their current older equipment or upgrading from black and white to colour, we have the flexibility “Our aim is to offer a personal touch, as well with both new and second-hand ex-lease machines to find a practical outcome that suits as a high level of knowledge, professionalism and service back up,” Haines says. the customer.”

Unit 2, 242 Ferry Road, P.O. Box 45, Christchurch 8140 T. 03 377 6776 F. 03 377 6777

Visit us at www.sbm.co.nz 92 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Equipment servicing

Business Development | Southern Business Machines

Multi-functional device

Southern Business Machines offers a wide range of high-quality office equipment from three of its major brands — Canon, Brother and HP. Bringing you colour printing and essential document functionalities in a single compact device, the Canon imageRUNNER C2020 can deliver outstanding productivity through print, copy, scan and fax. When networked with higher-end imageRUNNER ADVANCE devices, it can leverage on and extend your document infrastructure. Backed by Canon’s signature ease-of-use and reliability, the imageRUNNER ADVANCE C2020 is a perfect multifunctional device for your office. Highlights of the Canon imageRunner C2020 include: n Up to 20 pages per minute for black and white and colour output

n Standard USB support with optional memory media support n Compact-sized internal finishers

Canon software If your organisation would like to streamline and secure its information exchange, eliminate unnecessary manual processes, optimise staff efficiency or monitor its print environment closely to control costs, it can. All Canon software is scalable to suit your organisation’s needs, and offers a variety of options depending on daily staff workflow requirements. We’ll work closely with you to tailor a software solution that’s just right for the needs of your organisation.

n Brand new intuitive user interface with customisable menu for enhanced user experience multi-function capabilities for copy, print scan with optional send and fax;

Software packages include: Document distribution; information capture; document management; document accounting; production software; device management; document security; and document archiving.

n Up to 44ipm in scanning capability

Feature continues on next page

The Canon imageRUNNER C2020 can deliver outstanding productivity through print, copy, scan and fax.

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rated Brother the #1 Printer Brand for Service* It’s no wonder, when we’re the ONLY printer brand that boosts your warranty from 1 year off-site to 3 years, onsite. (All you need to do is purchase genuine Brother consumables) *2011 GFK customer research

For further information call Southern Business Machines on 03 377 6776

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 93

Business Development | Southern Business Machines

Business Development | Nelson Golf Club

Brother MFC-736ON Multifunction The Brother MFC-736ON is a versatile, all-in-one mono laser printer, scanner, copier and fax. It offers a fast printing speed of up to 24 pages per minute and features a user-friendly control panel with a two-line LCD screen and a 35-sheet automatic document feeder for fast multipage scanning, copying and faxing. Network connectivity means the Brother MFC-736ON can be shared between multiple users, while the machine allows users to minimise costs through saving paper and using less toner. The MFC-7360N comes complete with a range of easy-to-use software utilities to improve productivity. Bundled with the powerful Scansoft Paperport document management software, hard copy documents such as invoices can be scanned, stored and managed electronically for future retrieval.

HP Laserjet Pro Southern Business Machines’ range of HP office equipment includes the Laserjet Pro CM1415 colour multi-function printer series, for printing, copying, scanning and faxing. This machine features a colour touch screen, reducing both operating and maintenance times.

The Brother MFC-736ON is a versatile, all-in-one mono laser printer, scanner, copier and fax.

Summer fun in

Nelson It can produce professional-quality marketing materials through the HP ImageREt 3600, which enhances the quality of copied images, text and graphics with automatic copy optimisation. The CM1415 reduces energy use by up to 50 percent with Instant-On technology. Southern Business Machines Limited Unit 2, 242 Ferry Road Christchurch T (03) 377 6776 F (03) 377 6777 E sales@sbm.co.nz www.sbm.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Although traditionally a winter pastime, golf really should have always been a summer game. There are more hours in the day to do it, you don’t need to hump around a mountain of insulated layers in case the weather packs in and, best of all, the ball flies further and rolls longer. If you want to play in the sun, then look no further than Nelson’s warm, settled weather with sunshine hours that, by New Zealand standards, are off the chart. Nestled alongside the shore of Tasman Bay you’ll find the Nelson Golf Club, an 18 hole championship course only 10 minutes from the centre of downtown Nelson and virtually next door to beautiful Tahunanui Beach with all its handy accommodation. The challenging layout hosted the 2008 Toro New Zealand Interporvincial Championships and each Labour Weekend the New Zealand Mixed Foursomes event is held on the course.

We are proud to have provided IT services and support to Southern Business Machines since 2008

No matter the state of your game, there’s more than enough course to keep you on your toes. Should your game not be of ‘championship’ standard, then there’s a large practice area with driving nets, qualified NZPGA coaches and a fully stocked pro shop where you can buy or hire all the tools of the trade. With fantastic views across the bay, yet being handily situated to both town and its accommodation, the club really does make a

great little spot. But arguably the best thing about the Nelson Golf Club is that it takes absolutely no notice of the game’s reputation for being, at times and in certain places, a little elitist. The Nelson club is a place for all people. And this makes sense as golf has long been associated with socialising and the café and bar, or the 19th, is not restricted to just members of the Nelson Golf Club; the general public is welcome anytime to enjoy the friendly hospitality and fantastic views. It doesn’t matter if you’re after a quiet chat with friends or a buffet banquet — you can be accommodated and will be warmly welcomed. Idyllically set on the course’s picturesque edge, with spacious decks facing the Mt Arthur Ranges, the club’s café and bar is the perfect location for business conferences, family events, corporate dinners, end of year functions or an intimate wedding party. Whether you’re a serious gamer, casual enthusiast or just dropping in to make use of a great venue in a wonderful setting, then the Nelson Golf Club has got it covered. Nelson Golf Club 38 Bolt Road Nelson T (03) 548 5029, F (03) 548 5006, E nelson@golf.co.nz www.nelsongolf.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Pitt & Moore are pleased to provide the Nelson Golf Club with a full range of legal services. 78 Selwyn Place, Nelson P 03 548 8349 F 03 546 9153 281 Queen Street, Richmond P 03 543 9090 F 03 543 9099 E mail@pittandmoore.co.nz 94 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Business Development | Adrift in Golden Bay

Adrift

in a world of luxury

business was keeping them busy. They sold Lilies in Bloom to a Christchurch resident to focus on Adrift. As a result Adrift in Golden Bay was chosen as one of the top 10 Best Romantic Hotels in the South Pacific by Trip Advisor, the only New Zealand accommodation to receive this award in 2011.

If you’re looking for a romantic weekend away, then look no further. Tucked away up north is the luxury lodge Adrift in Golden Bay. Overlooking the water’s edge and the beautiful sandy beach of Tukurua, you could easily mistake yourself for being somewhere in the Cook Islands. The sound of waves lapping against the shore, seabirds calling and your own private beach are all part of a peaceful stay at Adrift, close to Takaka in Golden Bay. While staying at this secluded property, you can choose from the five beach cottages, all offering a self-catering ‘bach-style’ retreat just 30 metres from the waters edge. All the cottages have beautifully appointed bedrooms with king-size beds, a double hydrotherapy spa bath, lounge area and a kitchen where you can make your own meals. Adrift is a small, family-run, self-contained, five star luxury retreat, so you can be confident of receiving a warm personal welcome and friendly Kiwi hospitality. Golden

Bay is also close to some of the region’s best walks, arts and crafts, a great cafe culture and you’re just a piece of driftwood’s throw from Farewell Spit. Gordon and Bess Hampson are the proud owners of this luxury five star accommodation and their family has lived in Golden Bay for 28 years, so they can provide you with a wealth of information about the region.

The luxury resort is spread over landscaped gardens, ensuring guest privacy and a peaceful, relaxed, romantic atmosphere. All the accommodations look out over the beach and the clear, blue waters of the bay and face east to capture the beautiful sunrises. Wander down to the private, sandy beach for a leisurely stroll or a refreshing swim in the sheltered waters. Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the waves lapping on the shore.

“People come for special occasions such as a honeymoon, anniversary, birthday or to simply just do nothing for a couple of days,” Gordon says. For the past five years there has been a growing repeat clientele who visit Adrift each year or extend their stay as they don’t want to leave. “People love the peace and quiet our accommodation offers. There’s nothing better than lying in bed admiring the view over the water and watching the sunrise over Golden Bay.” Gordon and his family want to keep its business small and intimate. “We want quality not quantity, Adrift is intended to be small. Many beach locations are aimed at families, we wanted to aim our place for adults — that’s why we are so unique,” Gordon explains.

Its private location and warm hospitality Adrift in Golden Bay offers you a haven from the busyness of 52 Tukurua Road everyday life. To preserve the peaceful, Golden Bay relaxed environment, it caters only to adults Nelson and children over 12 years old. Bess also Originally from Bolton in England, Gordon T (03) 525 8353 met Bess in Canada and together they moved offers guests a breakfast hamper made from E contact@adrift.co.nz local ingredients and fresh seasonal fruit to New Zealand. After spending time in the www.adrift.co.nz — Advertising Feature North Island Gordon and Bess wanted to settle that’s grown on-site. somewhere where they could start a fruit and vegetable business. They discovered Golden Immerse yourself in this dramatic landscape of Bay and haven’t looked back since. shifting sands and migrating wildlife. “When we arrived the area was totally Travel to the Farewell Spit Lighthouse and beyond empty. My family and I all lived in a caravan as we give you a unique insight into the many whilst building our home. Eight years ago intrigues of this world class wildlife sanctuary. we decided to build a studio and rent it out. People came and loved the place. This Freephone 0800 250 500 is when we realised the potential of our Email info@farewellspittours.com property,” Gordon says. Web www.farewellspittours.com Gordon and his family decided to build five more cottages with the intention of making it a romantic destination. Previously owning Lilies in Bloom, a lily nursery, Gordon realised their new passion for the accommodation

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Transport and Motoring | Gold Band Taxis

Driving

through the decades

Gold Band Taxis has been driving Cantabrians for more than 80 years and is believed to be the oldest taxi company in Christchurch. But what it has been is a continually evolving business that’s stayed at the forefront of the taxi industry since its formation in 1929. Gold Band Taxis was established as a private company and at one time had 52 Ford V8 cars — the largest fleet of its kind in the country. Gold Band was the first taxi company in New Zealand to have a standard fleet colour, with all cars painted white. Its vehicles are still white today and are easily recognised by their gold-and-black reflective checks. The company moved locations several times in the decades since its formation, eventually ending up at its present building in Montreal Street in 1996. A major step forward was made in October 1993, when Gold Band switched on the Raywood Dispatch system for a two-hour trial. This system ran continually until a few weeks ago, when the company updated its dispatch system again. In 1997 Gold Band achieved a world first by operating two totally independent taxi fleets on a single data channel. Late the following year the company launched its website, while a year later it upgraded the dispatch system to include GPS, the first in New Zealand.

Gold Band Taxis in Christchurch has recently switched to a new MTData dispatch platform, which is improving its service to customers.

Gold Band Taxis in 2011 Over the years Gold Band Taxis has continued to grow into the large modern company it is today. General manager Steve Matheson says Gold Band now operates a fleet of almost 180 vehicles. While the majority are fourdoor sedans, the fleet also includes station wagons, vans, hybrid taxis and total mobility wheelchair taxis. All vehicles are less than 10 years old, with a high percentage of the fleet running on environmentally friendly fuels, including LPG and Diesel. There is also a growing number of hybrid vehicles, which are Toyota Priuses. “We have adapted our fleet policy to reflect the needs of the community, mainly regarding emission levels. Our fleet has

continued to evolve with that to minimise our environmental impact,” Matheson says. “We have about 300 drivers. All vehicles are owned and operated by our shareholders and franchisees but they may employ/ contract their own drivers, so their cars can be available to work almost continuously.” All drivers must complete a Gold Band knowledge permit and associated training classes in addition to the mandatory requirements (a police check, local area knowledge qualifications) prior to commencing driving.

Premium taxi services Gold Band Taxis offers a wide range of topquality services and can cater for all business and personal customer requirements. Gold Band is a key supplier to the Christchurch

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International Airport and is the longest serving of the current preferred suppliers. Find a Gold Band Taxi on the taxi stand outside the airport or can use the free phone in both the domestic and international terminals. All its total mobility drivers are highly qualified and experienced in assisting passengers with special needs. Its late model Toyota Hi Aces and Ford Transits are equipped with electronic wheelchair hoists that are fully certified and compliant to New Zealand standards. CabCall was launched in 2001 and enables regular users to quickly order a Gold Band Taxi over the phone with a few simple clicks of a button. CabCall has continued to evolve and is now a fully automated ordering facility suited to businesses requiring regular bookings with little time to spare.

Transport and Motoring | Gold Band Taxis

We have adapted our fleet policy to reflect the needs of the community, mainly regarding emission levels.

Steve Matheson Gold Band Taxis

will be the same or better than they were previously,” says Matheson. “The technology enhances the customer experience. There’s more data available; more information is sent to the car; it dispatches quicker. The added use of GPS mapping will mean that customer service is improved, drivers have more information, and the customer service centre answering the calls will have more information.”

Gold Band Taxis operates a fleet of almost 180 vehicles.

New dispatch system Gold Band Taxis has recently switched to a new call-and-dispatch system designed to make its service easier and faster for customers. General manager Steve Matheson says the new computerised state-of-theart data platform replaces the company’s previous dispatch system, which had been used since 1993. While previously all calls were answered by staff in the Christchurch office, the majority of calls are now answered remotely by staff in a call centre in Auckland. “It was identified that the dispatch platform was aged,” Matheson says. “The events of the February earthquake highlighted that the platform was unstable and we needed to accelerate that change to minimise risk.”

MTData’s taxi system is designed to offer new levels of functionality and flexibility for companies to run and manage their businesses. MTData delivers many exciting technology benefits, including real-time Gold Band has recently acquired the and fully customised reporting, improved Regency Cabs brand in Christchurch from the communications speed and reliability, and master franchise, which is part of the Alert graphical mobile units offering a new range Group. Discussions continued with Alert Group, of driver features. which operates the MTData dispatch platform, Gold Band Taxis is leveraged off the about a new data platform to benefit both infrastructure in Auckland and is now taxi companies. fully connected to the new system. Some “We did a lot of research and MTData was upgrading of its local network and facilities the preferred option. We could also see some will follow. significant benefits to outsourcing,” says Matheson. “The financial impact was also Improved customer service considerable and the impact on the members “The objective through the process is to and customers would be positive. It provides a ensure we minimise the impact of the change lot of flexibility.” over to customers, and that the service levels Gold Band Taxis developed a working relationship with the Alert Taxi Group, which is based in Auckland, and is a technology leader in the industry.

He says the change to the new MTData system went smoothly, with minimal impact on customers. “Our job numbers and call waiting times are already showing improvements. The early indications are very positive. It continues to reflect Gold Band leading the local taxi market with new technology, showing the company is committed to looking after the needs of customers in Christchurch.” However, the change has meant Gold Band Taxis had to reduce its Christchurch-based call centre from 20 staff down to five. “It’s been very difficult because we had such a group of loyal and committed staff. After the February quake we were operating from a tent on the lawn of a driver’s house because we didn’t have access to our Montreal Street premises,” he says. “Our staff worked very hard and were loyal during very difficult times, both for the business but in many cases for them personally as well, and it’s been a difficult decision to proceed. We gave our staff the opportunity to apply for the remaining roles and then had to issue redundancy notices to those unsuccessful or who decided not to apply.” Feature continues on next page

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Transport and Motoring | Gold Band Taxis

Modern Ford Fairlanes are available through Regency Cabs.

High-end Regency service The addition of Regency Cabs to Gold Band Taxi’s offering means an even broader level of premium transport service is now available. The Christchurch Regency Cabs franchise was recently purchased by a subsidiary of Gold Band Taxis. Gold Band general manager Steve Matheson believes it is extremely important that the Regency brand and its place in the market are maintained. “It’s different to Gold Band Taxis. It allows us to improve the service offerings we can provide to a range of customers. Regency is a top-end brand and this is an opportunity to Gold Band was the first taxi company in New Zealand to have a standard fleet colour. create a competitive service for this segment.” Regency Cabs are perfect for balls and social Matheson says there are exciting plans Regency Cabs offers a chauffeur-style taxi occasions, ensuring customers arrive in style ahead for Regency Cabs in conjunction with service aimed at the busy executive and and leave in safety. the master franchise, including technology people who value professionalism and changes, rebranding and new service Weddings are a speciality, with Regency’s service. Modern Ford Fairlanes are available offerings, to come on stream next year. luxury cars decorated with floral and ribbon for VIP transfers, weddings and other uses regalia for this special time. An at-request when a normal taxi is not appropriate. Improved online bookings service is provided to business houses and Gold Band Taxis is continually working to Luxury cars are also available for day tours, leading hotels and out-of-town chauffeurimprove its service and was the first taxi private functions and airport transfers. driven tours are also available. company in New Zealand to offer real-time online bookings. “We can see that as the greater community moves towards better technology that it’s an area we will continue to invest in and promote, particularly once the new dispatch system is well bedded down,” says Matheson. “We want to push the online bookings in the future. We want to provide multiple means for customers to get in touch. We’ve got a lot of local, very loyal customers who don’t have time to ring and talk. You can ring up and hang up and a taxi will automatically be dispatched, or online you can see where the nearest car is on a map and track it online.”

Gold Band Finance

Matheson says Gold Band Taxis has been successful in its 82 years of operation for a number of reasons. “The defining element in a service-based business is the people. That’s the people taking those calls, and very importantly it’s also the drivers and their vehicles, which are the critical element in

Established New Zealand owned and operated finance company, providing fast friendly service Personal loans | Business loans | Bridging finance Car loans | Plant loans | Equipment loans | Property loans. Proud to be associated with Gold Band Taxis Level 4 - 69 Cambridge Terrace. PO Box 713. Christchurch 8140 T. (03) 961 3000 or 0800 55 3000 F. (03) 963 0379 E. admin@goldbandfinance.co.nz

delivering that service. We have a good solid reputation.” The taxi industry is extremely competitive, with new players coming and going over the years. Matheson says the September and February earthquakes were defining moments for Christchurch taxi companies. “We were very fortunate because in September we were the only taxi company that remained totally operational, and in the weeks following in September and October we recorded the same level of jobs dispatched in those months the previous year.” However, the February earthquake had a more dramatic effect on business. “From May onwards we’ve returned to the levels of the previous year and in advance of those, with jobs that were rung in,” he says. “Friday and Saturday nights around the ‘hot spots’ have been impacted but those places are re-establishing themselves in other locations around town and are starting to build again. Despite the earthquakes and the economic climate, Gold Band Taxis is going to be around for at least another 82 years.” Gold Band Taxis 193 Montreal Street Christchurch 8011 T (03) 379 5795 E bookings@goldbandtaxis.co.nz www.goldbandtaxis.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

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485 Papanui Road, Christchurch 98 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Passionate, Proven, Professional

Transport and Motoring | Waimea Contract Carriers

Moving with the times Waimea Contract Carriers in Nelson has grown from a small gravel crushing operation to a large haulage company employing 90 staff and operating a fleet of 60 trucks. Along the way the company has established a unique presence in the logging industry in the top of the South Island. Waimea Contract Carriers was formed in 1980 by Simon McIntyre, who passed away in May after a short illness. General manager Phil Harris has been with the company since 1994 and says it wasn’t long after its formation that the company started carting coal, buying its first trucks in 1984 and moving into logging in 1986.

“The company has grown steadily since then, along with the general forest industry in and around Nelson,” he says. Today Waimea Contract Carriers is easily the largest log cartage operation in the district, carrying logs from forests to local mills such as Nelson Pine Industries’ large MDF plant, as well as to the Ports of Nelson and Picton. In addition, a small number of trucks travel daily to the West Coast to deliver logs to the plywood plant in Greymouth and the sawmill in Ruatapu, and bring export logs back to Port Nelson. “We’ve had trucks working in Canterbury recently but that was really a one-off,” Harris says. “We tend to stick to our contracts that we have with our key customers, who are forest owners in and around Nelson and Marlborough.” About 10 trucks in the fleet are double shifted, working around the clock five days a week. They tend to be the newer trucks which, after two or three years and 400500,000km, are rotated to single shifts. Waimea Contract Carriers was one of the first operators in New Zealand to use eight wheelers following the change to the road user charges schedule. It set up a 420hp Volvo F12 as a shorts unit to cart peeler logs to IPL in Greymouth.

Although dominated by Scanias, the fleet has been bolstered by seven Freightliner Argosy truck and trailer rigs during the past year, with another three more on order. The Argosy eight-wheelers were specced with day cabs and Series 60 Detroit diesel engines, which Harris says are tried and true. The Series 60 are performing well and slightly ahead of similar European trucks on fuel economy. Harris says when it comes to trucks capable of handling Nelson’s steep and rugged terrain, “simple is good,” while trucks designed to meet the latest European emissions regulations are becoming increasingly complex and fuel economy can suffer.

Growth in logging industry The past few years have seen a logging boom in Nelson and Marlborough, which has brought the forest industry into the same league as the horticultural mainstays of pip fruit and wine in the region. Logging and wood processing now employs almost 2000 people and contributes $340 million a year to the Nelson-Marlborough economy. Around 16 percent of the region’s productive land is in production forests, yielding more than 2.4 million cubic metres of wood a year. Around one third is exported as logs and the rest milled or processed.

While Waimea Contract Carriers was not affected by the economic recession, supply problems in China in recent months have seen a drop off in business. “The infrastructure around getting logs into China has not kept pace with demand from China, so there are ships queuing up to get logs off,” Harris says. “Only about 30 percent of Nelson’s logs are exported as roundwood. Out of that 30 percent, China only takes about a third. Two-thirds goes to Korea and India, but China sets the price. “There’s also been a downturn in the local industry because there are less houses being built in New Zealand and Australia, but there are definite signs of improvement and things are not looking too bad now.” Staff numbers at Waimea Contract Carriers have grown substantially in the past three years. “We’ve grown because the forest industry and market have grown,” Harris says. “In 2007 we also purchased a logging business, Transport Nelson Logging Limited, which had another seven or eight staff and eight logging trucks, and absorbed that business into Waimea Contract Carriers.” Feature continues on next page

Waimea Contract Carriers Limited and UDC - sharing the load since 1991 Growing a successful business is no small task. It takes hard work, perseverance, strong leadership and the support of a great team. UDC has supported Waimea Contract Carriers through the last 20 years, with asset based loans and services they’ve needed to successfully operate and expand. The fact is – if you’re looking to grow your business we will be there with you for the long haul.

UDC Finance Limited lending criteria applies.

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Call UDC now on 0800 500 832 or visit www.udc.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 99

Transport and Motoring | Waimea Contract Carriers Right: Waimea Contract Carriers undertaking quarry work. The company was formed in 1980 by Simon McIntyre, who passed away in May.

Engineering and maintenance Waimea Contract Carriers operates its own comprehensive in-house engineering facility to complement its truck workshop. In the 1990s Waimea Contract Carriers built trailers for outside clients, but that work later reduced due to lack of space in its workshop facilities and the need to concentrate on its own growing fleet. A new workshop for the mechanical and engineering division was built about 18 months ago just to cater for the growth. The new workshop covers 1400sqm and features an automated Total Oil supply system and two full-combination length inspection pits, each capable of handling a full truck-and-

trailer combination, an engineering section of four full-combination bays and a five-tonne, remote-controlled gantry crane traversing the entire building. Because the new purpose-built facility separates engineering from maintenance, repairs are now much easier. The company carries a full line of spares and can swap a transmission in a shift and a diff in a couple of hours. Servicing on the double-shifted trucks is carried out weekly, with the day-only trucks looked at every fortnight. All units have central greasing and oil changes are carried out at recommended levels. Adjoining the workshop is an automated wash facility, from which the run off is filtered

We’ve grown because the forest industry and market have grown.

Phil Harris Waimea Contract Carriers

and the wastewater used to irrigate adjoining farm land. The construction of the company’s extensive new workshop facility is an example founder Simon McIntyre’s attitude and ambition towards his company. He believed that by undertaking all of its own engineering, repairs and servicing, the company was not at the mercy of outside cost structures. Designing and building its own gear means the company can take into consideration all the lessons it has learnt about what works for its own situation and environment. General manager Phil Harris says the service is cost driven. “It comes back to economies of scale, but it also enables us to maintain better control over the quality of the work done. We are able to train guys to look after logging trucks specifically and in our way.”

Trailer construction Along with routine maintenance and repair work, Waimea Contract Carriers builds its own trailers and logging gear, although using predominantly Patchell components. The company has always endeavoured to design trailers that met its specific needs, rather than those that were fashionable within the industry. Waimea Contract Carriers experimented with various layouts and extendable bolsters over the years, but ended up settling on a simple, low-maintenance, single-piece approach that requires a careful design of both truck body and trailer to allow the trailer to sit as low as possible when being carried, keeping the bolster tips below the height limit. Trailer frames are cut and rolled by Patchell Engineering, as are the bolster components, leaving the balance of the fabrication and the fitting of running gear, wiring and painting to the team at Waimea. Trailer running gear such as SAF axles and air suspension are supplied by TWL, with the EBS/RSS systems coming from Wabco. 100 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Transport and Motoring | Waimea Contract Carriers

A family transport business Waimea Contract Carriers founder Simon McIntyre made a point of doing things differently to other logging transport operators in the South Island. McIntyre passed away in May, leaving the business he grew from a small shinglescreening plant in the early 1980s. General manager Phil Harris says a key element of McIntyre’s success was due to his ability to delegate and to attract good people into the business. Despite McIntyre’s passing, Waimea Contract Carriers is still very much a family business. His brother Nick manages the maintenance side of the operation, son Peter the engineering work and daughter Jenny is the finance manager.

McIntyre didn’t drive for too long but soon returned to engineering, looking after the equipment used by a local firm supplying fertiliser to the hops and tobacco farms in the area. Working part time on a rural mail contract to save extra money eventually gave him the opportunity in 1980 to buy a small local company, which involved a shingle-screening plant operating in the Waimea River. Two Hino 4x2 tippers provided the carrying capacity. The operation was grown some months later with the purchase of a nearby coal yard, with a contract to supply several local schools, using a 4x2 Bedford truck. McIntyre could see the transport future in the area lay with either logging or horticulture, and decided to go with logging. He eventually gained a contract with Nelson Pine Industries to cart native beech logs from the West Coast, using an old Mercedes-Benz 2624. This contract was the start of Waimea Contract Carriers as it is today.

The family’s engineering background is strong. Simon was one of seven siblings, with all four brothers becoming engineering technicians. Of Simon’s brother’s, Paul previously worked as a driver for Waimea but now has his own vineyard stone-crushing business in Marlborough, Nick manages the Waimea workshop, and the youngest brother, Mark, is a partner in Westport transport operator Johnson Bros. Their father was an aircraft engineer.

Dedicated and enthusiastic team

Born in Invercargill, Simon McIntyre spent most of his young years in Brightwater, south of Nelson, close to the Waimea Contract Carriers’ site. After finishing his apprenticeship in 1969, McIntyre drove a logging truck for about three years, which gave him a taste for the industry. One of his jobs involved cleaning up the last of the wind-thrown trees from the 1968 Wahine storm.

Phil Harris comes from an accountancy and business management background within the transport industry. Transport manager Chris Campbell has been with the company for 10 years and has made a successful transition from driver to manager. Operations manager Dave Croy has been with the company for more than five years and has enjoyed his move into the management ranks.

Part of Waimea Contract Carriers’ success is due to McIntyre’s commitment to employing a highly skilled and innovative management team, which supports its qualified and experienced drivers.

There’s been a downturn in the local industry… but there are definite signs of improvement and things are not looking too bad now.

Phil Harris Waimea Contract Carriers

The company employs a fulltime driver trainer and has recently appointed a second trainer to help ease the workload. The driver trainers not only handle the day-to-day training but also the induction process for new drivers. This includes an initial assessment, drug testing, a day-long classroom session and as many days in the truck as are needed to bring the driver up to speed. They also undertake regular driver checking and safety audits and driver

education to ensure that all of the drivers are up to National Certificate level.

Waimea Contract Carriers Limited Edens Road, Hope Richmond Nelson 7081 T (03) 544 7697 F (03) 544 8817 www.waicon.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Engineering Your Freight Capabilities • Logging Trucks and Trailers • Transport Engineering • Flatdecks and Semi Trailers Specialising in Logging Indusrty Trailers, Trucking and Off-highway Equipment Proud to be associated with Waimea Contracting Carriers 150 View Rd Rotorua 3015 Ph. 07 348 7746 Fax. 07 347 1687 www.patchellindustries.co.nz

Proud supporters of Waimea Contract Carriers.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 101

Property and Construction | Quinovic-Merivale

Personal, professional focus

to the fore

Quinovic Property Management is in the business of helping others; the industry it operates within is based on that very concept. But the Merivale franchise of the business took helping one step further as the earth shattering events of February 22 unfolded in Christchurch this year. Brushing aside their own personal stress and fears, the team pulled together and put business first. Within three weeks of the deadly earthquake, Quinovic-Merivale had personally visited every single one of the company’s properties through a priority system which ensured the worst affected properties were visited first.

The foursome behind the successful operation of Quinovic-Merivale: Property manager Felicity Elley, owner Sharon Layton, property manager Rachel Burrell and admin/support Lyn Edwards.

Sharon Layton, sole principal of QuinovicMerivale, won the inaugural Quinovic Excellence Award in a unanimous decision by the management team of the franchise group at its recent annual conference due, in part, to her management of the company through the trying events. “We were incredibly lucky with regards to our office; we were largely untouched by the events,” Layton explains. “While one of our property managers sustained significant damage to her property, everyone else was relatively OK. We rang all our tenants and proceeded to visit all our properties.

While Quinovic Group managing director Ross Davey says Layton’s win recognises her outstanding management with clients, tenants and staff through the major Christchurch earthquakes, the award also recognises the commitment her franchise has made to superior service throughout the year.

“An example of how great this company is, Quinovic franchisees from throughout New Zealand put their own businesses aside to come to Christchurch and physically do what they could to assist us.”

“Despite the distraction of the earthquakes, Quinovic-Merivale grew at a rate that is well above average for the group and was constantly among the top performing offices,” he says.

Established in 2007, the Merivale franchise the full support of the Quinovic brand which has been going for 24 years and is today the largest independent property management company in New Zealand. “My father was a Quinovic client with several investment properties almost from the very beginning, 21 years ago,” Layton says. “I was in the UK and I came back because an opportunity was there and started the Merivale franchise. I knew how superior the name Quinovic was.” Her success with the Excellence Award has earned her the opportunity to attend an Icehouse technology incubator business owner-operator development course with funding provided by Quinovic, New Zealand

Trade and Enterprise and BNZ, with whom Quinovic has had a long and successful relationship. “We appreciate the support of Trade and Enterprise and BNZ in helping provide this fantastic opportunity for Sharon,” Davey says. As a valued member of Quinovic’s National Marketing Council and part of the group’s National Software Focus Group Committee, Layton frequently travels to Wellington as well as running her own franchise in Christchurch. “The Quinovic Software Focus Group Committee is related to the Quinovic Management System Software, which is software unique to us, developed by franchisor Ross Davey. He recognised the need for good online services,” she says.

DAVID A. BOUSTEAD BUILDING & LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION LTD Licensed Building Practitioner, LBP 105404 Email: davidboustead@hotmail.com

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102 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

438 St Asaph Street, Christchurch Phone: 03 365 0907 Fax: 03 365 1462 Email: info@pyeelectrical.co.nz

Property and Construction | Quinovic-Merivale What Quinovic offers: Peace of mind

p Strict tenant screening process, including credit checks p Strong record keeping with photographic evidence p Prompt and competitive repairs and maintenance when required p Detailed final inspection report

Independence

p Regular property inspections p Monthly reporting p Maximum legal protection for owners p Bond administration

Communication

p Efficient and timely administration of the tenancy p Reliable rent collection via online computerised access p Personal service to owners and tenants 24 hours a day, every day of the year p Communication across all forms of media; email, post and telephone

Reliability

p Accurate income and expenditure reports p Timely rent reviews to provide maximum rental returns p Zero tolerance on rent arrears p Rent payments within five days of clearance

Easy Accounting

p Monthly statements with accurate income and expenditure reports emailed directly to you or your accountant

“A significant amount of our clients don’t live near their properties. This software enables them to log into a website, 24 hours, seven days a week from anywhere in the world, and see what happening with their property. “Even if our clients can’t talk to us, they know what’s going on.” She has a Masters of Business Studies from Massey University, majoring in tourism management. Before becoming a Quinovic franchisee, Layton spent several years in hotel management and established her own personal security company in London. Clients included Arab royal families and leading hotels. “Somehow she also manages to find time to raise her young family — a truly remarkable performer,” Ross says. He speaks as highly of Layton as she speaks of the franchise. Quinovic is superior, she says, because rather than operating within the vast realms of the real estate industry, it specialises in property management. “All we do is property management and each office

is independently owned and operated, which ensures quality.”

their jobs, we have no staff turnover. It’s all about the detail and strong communication.”

Quinovic-Merivale works solely within the residential housing market. “We deal predominantly with quality three and four bedroom family homes, although some properties fall outside that category. We find quality tenants for quality houses and provide quality property management.”

Quinovic advertises the property and uses strict tenant screening processes to find the best tenants. Photographic evidence and record keeping ensures the property is well maintained and any repairs are are carried out promptly. “Importantly, we find long term tenants, ensuring there is minimal rent down time and increased return on your property.”

It’s a competitive industry, but still the independent spirit of New Zealanders prevails, with not everyone realising the value in property management. “Seventy-two percent of New Zealand’s rental properties are not managed by property managers,” she says. “New Zealanders like doing it themselves and those statistics are even higher in Christchurch. But we add significant value to our clients and it’s not just me saying that. Our clients are the ones telling us we are exceeding their expectations. “Our staff are brilliant; long-term team members who have stuck by me. They know

Due to recent events, there is a shortage of quality rental homes and “this is likely to be more so within the next 12 months. “For us, this is about finding investors who are prepared to invest in Christchurch. Long term, that will be beneficial for them. We have the tenants but not enough properties,” she says.

Technology

p Secure identification login p Real time, up to the minute information p The facility to view transactions and produce customised statements p Every detail of your property at your fingertips.

“In this industry it’s all about service and communication and it’s our owners who are telling us we are doing the right thing.” Quinovic-Merivale 48 Papanui Road Christchurch T (03) 355 0348 www.quinovic.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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Congratulations to Sharon and the team at Quinovic

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We would like to sincerely congratulate Sharon on her award. She is the best in the business and would recommend her to the highest from personal experience. She looks after both the tenant and the home owner with both compassion, humility and also offers a fantastic service that isn’t just 9-5. Quinovic Property Management is a must have for any prospective landlord.

Phone: 03 3433545 • Fax: 03 982 0027 Email: gardencity@chemdry.co.nz • www.gardencity.chemdry.co.nz

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PROUD TO SUPPORT QUINOVIC

www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 103

Property and Construction | JCL Asphalt

Surface experts

JCL Asphalt, based in Hornby, Christchurch, offers a complete asphalt laying service, with all projects finished to the highest possible standard. Transport & General Engineering Heavy Vehicle Certifiers

BEL BROKENSHIRE ENGINEERING LTD Crane Fitting • Chassis Repairs Truck Decks • Curtain Sides Proud to be associated with James Craw Ltd

Car Restoration • Fleet Work Insurance • Motorhome Repairs Private and Commercial Repairs Camper Vans • Truck Fleet Work Truck Repairs • WOF Repairs

(03) 349 5495 619 Halswell Junction Road, Hornby, Christchurch

Ph. 03 349 2345 or 027 223 0107 Fax. 03 349 6132

The company was formed by James Craw in September 2004 and initially employed four staff, with numbers growing to the current 26 staff.

High quality work

JCL Asphalt offers a comprehensive range of services, from laying large commercial carparks to private driveways and tennis courts. “JCL have always been tennis court specialists,” Craw says. In fact, JCL Asphalt completes about 30 tennis courts each year, both for private and club or school use.

“I personally have very high standards in workmanship, and as the business owner, I’ll be there making sure the job is done right,” Craw says.

Many construction companies use JCL to lay the asphalt on tennis courts that paving machines or trucks cannot gain access to, as the JCL team is highly skilled in hand screeding asphalt. JCL Asphalt has a large fleet of machinery. But what really makes the difference on the job is the skill of the operators behind the machinery. The company employs highly skilled people, many being with the company for a number of years. “We have some good foremen and training of new staff is ongoing. Getting good staff is going to be an issue in the next few years.”

116 Branston Street, Christchurch Email. brokeng@xtra.co.nz

WE’RE ON A ROLL!

Since their introduction to the New Zealand market, Sakai compaction products have set the standard for reliability and lower operational costs. Sakai offers the widest range of specialist compaction equipment that includes: • Single Drum Vibrating Rollers • Double Drum Vibrating Rollers • Pneumatic Tyred Rollers 104 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

• Combination Rollers • Walk-behind models • Hand-held Tampers and Rammers

The team at JCL Asphalt work with a variety of clients and maintain a high standard of workmanship on all jobs.

“Cost is always an important factor for our clients and we have to give them options. We always look for the best way to undertake the work and are innovative in dealing with any issues which may arise. “The baseline of our business is making sure we can give our clients the best value for their money,” he says.

Canterbury A&P Show

Visitors to this year’s Canterbury A & P Show were welcome to come along and meet the team at the JCL Asphalt site C16. A mini tennis court was part of the display and JCL was alongside the Excavator Operator Competition which showcased the construction industry in Canterbury.

For further information contact your nearest AB Equipment branch or call:

0800 30 30 90 www.abequipment.co.nz

TALK TO US TODAY!

Property and Construction | JCL Asphalt of next year we’ll be right into it and we’ll continue to be busy for years to come.” JCL has already used the new Vogele machine on the most recent stage at Pegasus town, which was finished at the end of September. It is the first stage of Pegasus that JCL Asphalt has been involved with and the company is hoping to be involved in further stages. “We’re keen to get involved with some of the new subdivisions being developed in and around Christchurch as a result of the earthquake,” Craw says.

Growing a professional business Craw hopes to increase JCL Asphalt’s staff numbers to cope with the increase in business, but is mindful of maintaining the company at a manageable level. “We don’t want to get too big too quick, but we could go up to 35 staff. I’ve just taken on a senior estimator to help me with the pricing. He is working alongside clients, giving them options to suit their budget and meet their needs,” he says. “I was getting too busy and it helps bring the company up to a more professional level.” JCL Asphalt has developed a top reputation with the contractors it works for. All JCL Asphalts trucks are painted blue, in the company colours, and can be clearly identified. “People see us around town and we’re clean and have a good image. In 2009 we won the company image award in the Canterbury division of the New Zealand Contractors’ Federation and last year we won the award for the most progressive company in the Canterbury awards.” Craw is vice-chairman of the Canterbury branch of the New Zealand Contractors’ Federation.

The baseline of our business is making sure we can give our clients the best value for their money. James Craw | JCL Asphalt JCL Asphalt has just purchased a new asphalt laying machine from Germany, which allows it to undertake large roading and subdivision work. Owner James Craw says while his Christchurch company has previously always hand laid all of its asphalt jobs, the new Vogele machine means it can now undertake large asphalt jobs and complete larger projects in less time. “We’re hoping to grow the company on these bigger jobs,” he says.

Earthquake work JCL Asphalt has experienced an upturn following the Christchurch earthquake. “We were extremely busy with clean-up work, which has allowed us to grow. We were in

JCL Asphalt PO Box 37275 Halswell Christchurch 8245 Freephone (0800) JCL NOW (525 669) T (03) 981 0496 F (03) 981 3327 E james@jclasphalt.co.nz www.jclasphalt.co.nz

a good position to get right into that work,” Craw says. “We’ve been in a lot of different car parks to make things safe. In the CBD we have laid a good majority of the footpaths outside the buildings that have been demolished.”

— Advertising Feature

The earthquake has given JCL the opportunity to start doing large commercial yards and large carparks. “Buying the new Vogele machine was a big step and we had to know that the work was out there for it.

Wirtgen New Zealand is proud to be associated with James Craw as a supplier of choice for JCL Asphalt’s growth and we wish them well on their new path.

“We’re gearing up; earthquake work is starting to come through now and by the start

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Freephone: 0800 JCL NOW (0800 525 669) Office: 03 981 0496 | Mobile: 021 999 457 Fax: 03 981 3327 Email: james@jclasphalt.co.nz www.jclasphalt.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 105

Property and Construction | Urban Paving and Landscape Supplies

Siltys

innovative memento Natural stone products Urban Paving and Landscape Batchelor has recently returned from a buying Supplies has taken liquefaction trip to India, where he purchased a range of silt from Hagley Park and created beautiful new natural stone products. unique earthquake memento bricks The range includes hard-wearing sandstone that are proving popular here pavers, which come in a range of colours and textures. Each paver is unique, providing and overseas. The grey bricks, or ‘Siltys’, feature the words ‘Kia Kaha ChCh’ and were created after Urban Paving collected and stored silt from Hagley Park following the February quake.

Concrete paving is still the engine of the business, but the natural stone and polished paving is increasing in popularity.

Dan Batchelor Urban Paving and Landscape Supplies

Owner Dan Batchelor says his company began manufacturing the Silty in June. Sales have been steadily growing, with the Silty making ideal Christmas gifts or as mementos included in landscaping or building projects. All proceeds from the sale of the Siltys go to Gap Filler and Greening the Rubble, two organisations working to create temporary green areas in Christchurch’s vacant spaces. Batchelor says each organisation has received more than $7000 from Urban Paving to date. The Silty initiative is typical innovation displayed by Urban Paving and Landscape Supplies, which was purchased by Dan and Jo Batchelor six years ago. Today they employ 17 full-time and part-time staff from their large supply yard in Sawyers Arms Road, Harewood. Urban Paving is Christchurch’s leading supplier of general purpose and specialty landscaping products. Along with New Zealand’s’ largest range of concrete paving in a wide variety of colours, textures and finishes, the company also supplies an impressive selection of honed concrete pavers, natural Indian sandstone paving and a huge range of coloured stones and feature rocks. The right Urban pavers can enhance any environment, from the classic to the modern, contemporary and eco homes. All pavers are made with the high quality materials and many natural sustainable products. They are manufactured using the latest technology on site in Christchurch, where temperature, humidity and other variables are controlled.

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(03) 342 6182 Fax. (03) 342 8839 sales@palletmakers.co.nz www.palletmakers.co.nz

Other high-quality concrete products made by Urban Paving include planters and tables, hopscotch sets and urban stone stacks, made from Westland flat or Otago schist and are available as water features. Urban Paving and Landscape Supplies is the place to go for any landscape supply products, including stones, aggregates, sand, soil and compost, bark, boulders, sleepers and pungas. Batchelor says there are more than 45 bins full of landscape products on site, including the popular Teddington chip. Teddington is a 20-40mm coloured chip from Banks Peninsula, with earth brown and terracotta undertones popular in gardens and pathways.

Supporting Urban Paving and all customers in the rebuild of Christchurch Cement. Aggregates. Concrete. 106 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

a harmonious blend of subtle natural tones within a controlled colour palette.

Nothing beats the beauty and soft texture of natural sandstone that ages gracefully and weathers beautifully in any conditions. Indian Sandstone is the perfect choice for those with a love of natural product and the beauty of a material that has stood the test of time for thousands of years in the temples of India. Urban Paving also stocks a range of natural New Zealand paving stone, which are sourced from quarries around the South Island. “Concrete paving is still the engine of the business, but the natural stone and polished paving is increasing in popularity,” says Batchelor. In addition to natural stone pavers, Urban Paving and Landscape Supplies imports beautiful natural stone urns, tables and spheres, which add interest and elegance to every garden.

Success and growth Since purchasing the business six years ago, the Batchelors have concentrated on improving their product range and service — getting the basics right. “It’s all about doing it right for your customers,” Dan Batchelor says. While the outlook appeared bleak after the February earthquake, Urban Paving was fortunate to sustain no significant damage, with business picking up from the start of spring. While the company does not offer a landscape design service, it works closely with Christchurch’s leading landscape architects and contractors and can help customers get in touch with the right people for their project. The company is currently preparing for its display at the Ellerslie Flower Show in Hagley Park next year. In 2010 it won a gold award and Retailer of the Year for its outdoor retail site at the show, while the previous year it won silver.

Urban Paving and Landscape Supplies 575 Sawyers Arms Road Harewood Christchurch 8543 T (03) 359 8625 F (03) 359 2665 E sales@urbanpaving.co.nz www.urbanpaving.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Property and Construction | PPL Electrical

Servicing home and light commercial electrical needs Whether you require a whole building wired, or urgent electrical repairs completed to make your property safe and functional, PPL Electrical can meet your needs. The reason for this is simple — diversity.

The diverse nature of PPL Electrical allows it to services a vast array of applications within the electrical industry. A professional and experienced team of electricians offer a prompt, thorough and safe service backed by the Master Electricians’ guarantee. “We complete all types of electrical work on homes, light commercial properties and retail premises,” explains owner-operator and master electrician, Donald Gunning. He established PPL Electrical in 2008 to fill a gap in the marketplace. “I started the business three years ago after seven years in the electrical industry. I wanted to offer a better price and a better service than what was in the market at the time.” Today that service encompasses the full scope of the residential and commercial electrical services. “We cover the range of residential and commercial servicing, maintenance and installation, from fixing a plug, to bathroom or kitchen alterations, through to a full electrical fit-out.”

“We’ve gone as far as Timaru for a job before,” Gunning says.

n Vital emergency electrical repairs for Pegasus Health after February 22

But the earthquakes have been keeping the company busy in the city. Following the February earthquake, some of the team volunteered throughout the city, while the rest worked with Pegasus Healthcare getting emergency generators up and running in the immediate aftermath.

n Rebuild of Christchurch Farmers stores

The company is still experiencing increased demand as a direct result of the earthquake, but is wary of over-committing and threatening the quality PPL is renowned for. “It’s about making sure we are prepared and available to offer the same excellent service we have always offered.” The company has been involved with some of Christchurch’s flagship electrical projects: n The stunning LED light display outside the Christchurch airport terminal building

n Knight Frank (Simes Property Management) maintenance and repairs. A member of the Electrical Contractors Association of New Zealand (ECANZ) — the major electrical contracting trade association in New Zealand — PPL Electrical is proud to offer the same level of professionalism to all electrical work it completes in Canterbury. “We’re big enough to have the knowledge, skills and technology required to complete quality work, but we’re still small enough to care,” Gunning says. PPL Electrical PO Box 16201 Hornby Christchurch T 0508 GET PPL www.pplelectrical.co.nz — Advertising Feature

It’s a competitive industry, but PPL competes on service and value. It’s not rocket science; a bargain is a bargain. “We are a friendly people orientated company, offering excellent service for an affordable price. “We don’t charge call out fees, we work 24/7, we provide free quotes and we cover the entire Canterbury region. We work with customers to ensure they get what they want; it’s a friendly enjoyable service.”

The trade qualified and industry trained Master Electricians at PPL Electrical can complete the full range of services for your residential or commercial building including earthquake repairs. Whether it is planned maintenance, an emergency or an electrical project PPL has the knowledge and expertise to help:

Although based in Christchurch PPL is constantly on the move throughout Canterbury, providing electrical work in Ashburton, Rakaia, Dunsandel, Rolleston, Weedons, Darfield, Springfield, Little River, Akaroa, Clarkville, Ohoka, Woodend, Sefton, Rangiora, Waikuku and beyond.

n Electrical repairs and faults from an oven socket to hot water problems n Installation of electrical appliances such as light fittings and heat pumps n Rewiring old houses to bring them up to a safe insurable standard n Wiring new homes, garages and other buildings n Wiring renovations and extensions including kitchens, bathrooms and room additions n Indoor and outdoor lighting to add ambience and safety n Security systems, lighting and alarms to keep your property safe n Power plugs, TV outlets and phone outlets for your convenience n Electrical safety testing and electrical maintenance to prevent problems and save money. www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 107

Property and Construction | Greenshore Contracting

earthwork specialists

The

Greenshore Contracting in Rangiora offers a complete range of earthmoving and sitework services and can provide a total package to Canterbury customers. The company was formed in 2007 by Mike Greenem, who initially began doing siteworks for local builders and driveways. Mike and his wife Sonja are farmers in Rangiora, owning a 30-acre property that runs sheep and cattle, with Sonja also doing all of Greenshore Contracting’s administration work. “We’ve always had farming, lifestyle and forestry blocks and always had bulldozers and diggers,” Mike Greenem says. “I put one ad in the Yellow Pages and the phone didn’t stop ringing. As people phoned we met their demands.”

Wide variety of work Today Greenshore Contracting does a wide variety of work, including siteworks, landscape preparation, post hole boring, trenching, excavation, fencing, cattle and sheep yards, tree and hedge removal, cartage and irrigation systems. The company also supplies all shingle and aggregate required. “I think the concept of the business was that there are a lot of people moving to the country and they don’t know where to start,” Greenem says. “The business has grown naturally as demand has been there. Most of it is through word of mouth and we’ve never had a dissatisfied customer.” Greenshore Contracting operates a large fleet of machinery, including excavators, bobcats, trucks with all the necessary attachments and compaction equipment. Greenem hires any other larger machinery that might be needed in order to keep his costs down. “We try to keep our overheads as low as possible so our charges don’t have to cover too many overheads — we’re very competitive.” Most of Greenshore Contracting’s business involves rural lifestyle block developments, house foundations and site works for builders. “We’ve been involved in some big subdivisions and commercial work. We worked for a civil engineering company on the upgrade of the Kaiapoi Power Station, but

Greenshore Contracting undertakes siteworks for high-end subdivisions.

a lot of our work is on house building, from foundations to driveways and landscaping,” says Greenem. “We’re the first man on the job and the last to leave after the builder has gone. We do quite a lot of rural driveways as well.”

Growth and success While Greenshore Contracting primarily services the North Canterbury region, Greenem and his three operators will go just about anywhere for work. They’ve completed projects all around Christchurch city and have worked in Kirwee, Oxford and Hanmer. The company was busy right through the economic recession, with bad weather being the only hindrance in getting on with the work. “If we get a month of rain it’s quite

hard to meet the demands. But we have the ability to get the job done to the customer’s satisfaction, on time and on budget, because we can pretty much do everything,” says Greenem. “If we can’t do it, we know who can do it. We can introduce the parties and we try not to be the man in the middle, unless customer wants it. We’re quite a small company so we work in with other small contractors who also operate with low overheads.” Greenem only plans to expand his business if the market demand is there. “It’s a comfortable small business at the moment. For any larger jobs, such as subdivisions or commercial projects, we engage a range of other contractors to help us, all under our management.”

There’s a lot of lifestyle block development going on… The influx of people from Christchurch going to North Canterbury is unbelievable.

Mike Greenem Greenshore Contracting

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PROUD TO SUPPORT GREENSHORE CONTRACTING Rangiora, North Canterbury, 7400 • grant.stewart@clear.net.nz 027 369 3974 • (03) 313 9375 • www.stewartcontracting.co.nz 108 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Arthur Jones Ph. 03 313 5691 13 Station Rd, Rangiora. PO Box 225, Rangiora Mobile. 027 435 1531. Fax 03 313 4307 Proud to be associated with Greenshore Contracting

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Property and Construction | Greenshore Contracting

Greenshore Contracting operates a large fleet of machinery, including excavators, bobcats and trucks.

swimming pool, tennis courts, paths and driveways and we did the lot.”

Earthquake inquiries

While Greenshore Contracting has not undertaken any earthquake demolition work, it has received inquiries from home owners about this service. “As the insurance companies and builders are starting to get their heads together we’re getting more calls about demolishing people’s houses. We’ve done quite a bit of work in Christchurch on properties where the house has been relocated and there are still paths and driveways that need to be cleaned out,” says Greenem. A pump and filtration system for a rural automated irrigation and domestic supply, installed by Greenshore Contracting.

Lifestyle block developments

Greenshore Contracting has been busy this year developing properties for Christchurch residents moving to North Canterbury. Owner Mike Greenem says there has been a big influx of Christchurch people moving out to the country since the February earthquake, particularly in the past couple of months. “There’s a lot of lifestyle block development going on at the moment, following all the tragedies that have happened in the last 12 months. The influx of people from Christchurch going to North Canterbury is unbelievable,” he says. “You can see if in the property market out here. Every single house or lifestyle development is being snapped up, but when those buyers get out here they wonder what to do with their property.” Greenem believes there will be increasing amounts of land divided into lifestyle blocks and subdivisions in the coming months. “It’s already starting to happen but they have to get through the red tape. All the

lifestyle blocks that were available and that are coming onto the market are being sold straight away. They’re bare blocks of land and people have to start from scratch.”

“We’re contemplating doing demolitions but I think we’ll stay away from it because the whole concept of our business is to construct, rather than pull down. We specialise in developing lifestyle properties.”

Mike Greenem says it’s his company’s personal approach that makes it stand out from other operators. “We try to be friendly With most rural properties reliant on water and obliging with our customers. I’m out from the ground, Greenshore Contracting is in there on the machines so customers can deal demand to install pumps, tanks and treatment directly with the business owner. I’m there at systems, as well as do the house foundation every job we do and we try not to do too may works, driveways and drainage. jobs at one time. Requirements for house foundations have “The philosophy I have is that when you get changed considerably since the earthquake, out of bed you have to be happy going out to adding extra cost onto every build. work. I’d rather be out there than sitting in an Greenshore Contracting works closely with the Irrigation Warehouse in Rangiora, which offers a full range of irrigation, pumps, filtration and water treatment equipment. “They have everything — and the expertise, backup and support that goes with it,” Greenem says. “Irrigation is something that I’ve always been interested in. We do full installations. We’ve just finished a property that was seven acres of lawn with 550 pop-up sprinklers and a fully automated system. There was also a

office paying other people to do it. I enjoy the work and it’s more of a lifestyle than a job. Every job is different and every house we do the foundations for is different.” Greenshore Contracting Limited PO Box 232 Kaiapoi 7644 T (027) 443 8542 E mikegreenem@xtra.co.nz www.greenshorecontracting.co.nz

• excavation & cartage • driveways • irrigation & pump installations • siteworks • trenching & holeboring • landscaping • lifestyle block development

Mike Greenem Greenshore Contracting

FOR ALL YOUR DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION NEEDS

3COMMERCIAL 3INDUSTRIAL 3RURAL 3RESIDENTIAL 3INFRASTRUCTURE Comprehensive Design & Construction Service Available New Zealand Wide

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GREENSHORE CONTRACTING LTD

The business has grown naturally as demand has been there. Most of it is through word of mouth and we’ve never had a dissatisfied customer.

Ph. 07 827 6440 F. 07 827 6450 E. admin@tasmandesignandcivil.com www.tasmandesignandcivil.com

MICHAEL GREENEM owner/operator

p.o.box 232 | kaiapoi | mob 027 443 8542 email mikegreenem@xtra.co.nz www.greenshorecontracting.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 109

News | Cover Story

of a lifetime trying is always worth it. “If you don’t try you never know. Okay, I fell over so many times. I ummed and ahhed about putting that chapter in the book, because people will think I was an idiot, but some things didn’t work so we move on. “A lot of entrepreneurs have the ability to go against the flow. I remember when we put up those tent villages, everybody thought it was a great idea, but nobody would support me because they said it was impossible to do. And I said ‘well, we’re going to try it’ — and it worked.”

New direction

“You’ll see a Contiki ad but that’s normally a travel agent paying. Contiki relies on word of mouth and travel agents that trust the brand. “The travel agent will do the sales job for us as they’ve had clients with Contiki before and they say ‘I’ve had other clients who have had a good experience I recommend you book with Contiki’. (Word of mouth is) the cheapest in cost but it’s a long term thing; it takes a long time to get it established. We get passengers that are the children or grandchildren of other Contiki passengers.”

Point of difference Another important aspect every company needs is a point of difference. “Competition is tough out there — what point of difference have you got that will convince people to buy yours instead of someone else’s?” Despite targeting the youth market, Anderson’s point of difference was Contiki’s more expensive prices. “I had the theory that if people were going all this way then they would buy the best. So rather than battle against the discounters I made the decision to go a little more upmarket. Those Mercedes coaches were expensive to run, but I knew my passengers would be safe, they would get from A to B on time and the safety angle was terribly important. Sure, we had the odd accident but when you look at the millions of kilometres travelled, the company’s got the most amazing safety record. “I remember once we had a 12-week tour and I said, ‘lets add the Greek Islands’. The extra cost was enormous but we said ‘lets give that option,’ and that tour sold more than the others. People are looking for value; they don’t mind paying top dollar providing they’re getting value for that money.” In Anderson’s book Only Two Seats Left, he commits an entire chapter to the times one of his business ideas have failed or not gone as well as he’d liked. Anderson maintains that

Nearly 50 years after his first Contiki trip, and no spring chicken, Anderson is the force behind a new company — one called Contours. This company takes people aged 45 plus around South America, a place Anderson and his wife fell in love with when they first visited three years ago. Contours is run by Anderson and one of the first Contiki drivers, a man named Ted Dziadkiewicz who has run South American tours for decades. “The theory was a lot of Contiki passengers who had a good time in their 20s could come and trust us again now they’re over 45. Also, I believe South America could well be challenging Europe in the next 10-15 years as the in place to go. At the moment they’re getting the infrastructure together, they’re not ready for mass tourism yet.” Again, Dziadkiewicz and Anderson knew they needed a point of difference, especially as today there are numerous tours of South America. The pair decided that like Contiki, Contours would be about quality. “We’re going to go for comfort — four and five star hotels, we’re going to put in all those unique features the other tour programmes don’t have. We’ve put environmental features in as that’s what the market now wants.

In the northern hemisphere summer of 2012 Anderson and his wife Ali will travel around Europe once more, tracing the original Contiki route. It will mark 50 years from that memorable trip of 1962 that started what is now a tourism empire. Of all his successes, Anderson says he loves most when he speaks about Contiki and people from the audience tell him about the life long friends and relationships that were formed as young people on a bumpy road winding through a foreign land. On the trip in 2012, Anderson is bound to see several brightly coloured Contiki buses, as this generation sets off on its own life-changing experiences. As he always does when he sees a Contiki bus, Anderson will wave as they go past. I’m sure many of the excited young people will wave back, thinking he is just a friendly older gentleman wishing them well, not knowing who he is or what he has created. www.contourstravel.com.au www.onlytwoseatsleft.com

“We want the experiences to be authentic and not ruined by a large crowd of tourists so we cap the group at 18. For example, when we found a great restaurant in Buenos Areas, we decided to divide the group up — nine for one night, nine for the next to keep it small.” The first Contours trips left in February and seven have returned successfully. There are currently only three routes, as the company wants to have them well-established before it adds more. Contours trips to Cuba and Mexico are being developed and Anderson already knows one person who has booked based on word of mouth advertising. While he has recently moved to Auckland, Anderson still has strong ties to the South Island, his home of the past decade. Christchurch is the city his wife grew up in, and it now hosts the Ellerslie Flower Show, an idea Anderson thought up and was the inaugural CEO of. “I’m really impressed with what Christchurch has done with the show. It was becoming too commercial in Auckland.”

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Property and Construction | Natural Log Homes

Logging into a hand-crafted Natural Log Homes from Geraldine are a beautiful and unique alternative for new home builders wanting something special. Every custom-built home produced by Natural Log Homes is hand crafted and designed specifically for the home owner.

About 10 years ago he merged the business with an American friend and changed its name to Natural Log Homes to service the large American market for log homes. About 12 log homes were shipped in kitset form to the United States before a change in the New Zealand dollar saw an end to demand. Mould split from his American business partner five years ago and continued the company on his own, focusing instead on the New Zealand market.

“Our homes are unique — it’s a niche market,” Mould says. “We’re not there to compete The origins of the company date back 22 years, with the mass-produced timber-framed, 79 Brophy Road | RD 21 | Te Moana | Geraldine when Graeme Mould formed a business called run-of-the-mill home. A log home is a South Island Log Homes. He built his first p 03 693 8022 | f 03 693 8028 hand-crafted work of art. We’ve never built “rough” log cabin as a teenager, then went on e jesspaterson@xtra.co.nz two the same and we’ve built everything www.jpa.net.nz to complete a carpentry apprenticeship, before from tiny cabins to large 10-bedroom lodges.” starting his own company. Natural Log Homes are built from logs sourced to specification from sustainable plantations in South Island forests. The company uses only large (350mm average diameter) naturally shaped logs for its log home kitsets, with the Toll Tranzlink is the nation’s largest freight company. majority of logs being Douglas fir. • 18 branches throughout New Zealand from Whangarei to Invercargill. • Operating over 600 road vehicles. • Access to 2870 rail wagons which run over 3800 kilometres of track. • Each working day, we pick up and deliver to all towns and cities throughout the country. • Offering fully-integrated interface solutions and a state of the art online customer solution free of charge. • Offering full tracking of consignments and electronic signature capture on delivery.

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Phone: 0800 872 695 OR 03 9563201

Pleased to support Natural Log Homes

Home designs vary in size and complexity, but the company strives to uphold the highest standards of quality and artistic craftsmanship that homeowners have come to expect from Natural Log Homes. “We are passionate about providing our customers with log home shells that are unsurpassed in quality, value, environmental awareness, ease of ownership, design, and appearance,” Mould says. All Natural Log Homes are hand made, with the logs individually scribe fitted to each other. All notches and grooves are scribed and cut by craftsmen, not machines, who aim for 1-2mm fit on all log grooves and notches, but usually achieve an even tighter fit.

A log home is a hand-crafted work of art.

Graeme Mould Natural Log Homes

The company employs six staff and has two cranes at its premises in Geraldine, with all logs individually scribed on site. “We build the walls here in our yard, which can take three or four months. They are then pulled apart and numbered and shipped direct to the customer’s prepared foundation. We then go and do the assembly on site, or sometimes a local builder or the owner will help with the assembly,” says Mould. Natural Log Homes offers the cleanest, easiest, fastest and most reliable reassembly system in the hand-crafted industry. “The assembly is very quick because it’s just like a big jigsaw puzzle. We have assembled a house in five hours.” While Natural Log Homes have log exterior walls and structural interior walls, most also have a small number of conventional timberframed and gibbed walls inside, which are not built by Natural Log Homes. Natural Log Homes can incorporate any other building mediums and materials, such as concrete or wooden floors, heating, carpets, tiles stone and mud brick, and offer all the modern benefits of conventional homes.

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Specialists in Log Home design

Property and Construction | Natural Log Homes

alternative The benefits of log homes Natural Log Homes have a proven record of strength and durability, with a Mt Pleasant log home coming through the February earthquake in great shape. The log home is located extremely close to the Port Hills fault — the epicentre of the quake — and was thoroughly checked over after the disaster. “We’ve had a very good report from a structural engineer for an older home we built 15 years ago,” owner Graeme Mould. “It’s in the Port Hills and survived extremely well. The customer was really happy and the engineer was really happy with how it performed. We’re now getting some inquiries from Christchurch people who are interested in how strong our homes are.” Log homes have provided sustainable longlasting housing in many parts of the world for thousands of years. All Natural Log Homes are engineer approved to ensure customers get the safest and strongest log home they can, engineered to suit the location, wind zone and earthquake zone. Mould says logs are an amazing building material that are strong and flexible and are usually over specified in areas such as lintels and beams. “The insulation properties of logs are really good. These log homes are traditionally built in the United States and Canada where it is very cold, and they perform extremely well,” says Mould. “They are incredibly strong and aesthetically pleasing. Recently we’ve been getting younger customers who are more environmentally aware. Our homes are just logs laid horizontally and fitted together.”

Natural Log Homes does not have a range of set plans, but prefers to refer clients to several architects who specialise in log home design and construction, in order to create the perfect individualised home. The designers will take the home from initial concept right through the consent stage for the customer. However, Natural Log Homes has recently offered its first standard plan, the Clearwater, which was designed by architect Jess Paterson. The Clearwater is a cost-effective three-bedroom log home, but still offers character and style. The 116 square metre design features a cathedral ceiling, which makes the home feel large and spacious. Natural Log Homes builds three or four homes a year and has started doing an increasing number of log features in conventional timber-framed homes, including log trusses and beams. “Log features in conventional homes are common overseas but are just starting to take off in New Zealand. We’re doing some conventional houses with log features such as log trusses and posts and beams in lounges, great rooms and entrance ways,” Mould says. “We’re building a big log hunting lodge just north of Geraldine, as well as a massive log house in Te Anau. We have them dotted all over New Zealand.” Natural Log Homes Limited Corner of Kennedy and High Streets PO Box 25 Geraldine 7956 T (03) 693 7468 (027) 221 3812 E graeme@naturalloghomes.co.nz www.naturalloghomes.co.nz — Advertising Feature

South Canterbury’s Leading Forest Owner Growing and Harvesting sustainable forests for future and current generations. Suppliers of radiata pine and douglas fir sawlogs for the domestic and international log markets. P: 03 688 2173 • F: 03 688 2176 E: info@blakely-pacific.co.nz www.portblakely.com

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Property and Construction | Stack Electrical

Charging ahead There’s something about the New Zealand garage; put a Kiwi bloke in one and he seems to transform the humble surroundings into a successful business venture. Or perhaps that’s just the cleverest of us. It was certainly the case with Stack Electrical. Established by Allan and Judy Stack in 1984 Stack Electrical has grown since those early days in the garage, to fill a prominent position within the electrical industry. Today the company offers a diverse range of electrical services, from heat pump installation or installing light fittings, to installing heavy industrial equipment and fuel tank maintenance. As the Canterbury agents for The Heating Company, Stack Electrical installs underfloor and infloor heating, mirror demisters and towel rails, to name just some of the company’s diverse range of services. “There’s not much within the realms of the electrical industry that we won’t do and no job is too big or small. For a new house or alterations we can install demisters, towel rails, underfloor heating and do the entire electrical fit-out. We are a one-stop shop,” Judy explains. After a few years Allan took on his first apprentice and the experience has led to a lifelong commitment to the training industry. “Training is very important to us and we have always kept it as a priority to have apprentices on our staff. By hiring apprentices you are giving back to the industry, providing someone with a job and training in a great industry and in return you get the help you need.” Four apprentices are currently part of the strong team of 12. Staff turnover is almost non-existent, a fact which speaks volumes

Judy and Allan Stack outside their one-stop shop for electrical services.

Our company motto is ‘customer service is everything’.

Judy Stack Stack Electrical about the company. “All our current staff started with us as apprentices and they’re still with us now. We’re really lucky to have a great band of staff.” Word of mouth has been a strong propellant for the business. “Word got around about our expertise in the industry and this has carried us through the ups and downs that came our way — recessions, times when building industry was strong, times when it wasn’t.” In the mid ‘80s that reputation led to Allan being asked to complete some work at one of the fuel sites at Christchurch Airport. “He hadn’t been involved in hazardous area work and he realised there was a gap in the market for specialists in this area.” Today hazardous area work makes up a large portion of the business, with the

company working for fuel and LPG suppliers. “Effectively we make sure the city has fuel. When the earthquakes came that was our top priority, ensuring the service between Lyttelton and Christchurch could continue and we did our best to facilitate that.”

Part of this reliability is having staff available when required, often at the last minute. When there is an electrical breakdown, either industrial or domestic, if the client need help to get them up and running again, Stack Electrical will be there.

A registered electrical inspector, Allan is also able to audit and inspect all hazardous area sites and installations and is one of only a few inspectors available to provide this service in the South Island.

Stack Electrical’s ability to cater to the needs of the industry is why it has been such a success. In fact, despite losing their personal home, Allan and Judy were back open for business the day after the February quake. “You can’t have a fuel site that doesn’t have fast and reliable maintenance electricians and everyone needs to be able to take a hot shower, so we are available 24 hours.”

Stack Electrical has a wide range of clients in the industrial sector, from large engineering companies to small factories. This diversity of clients has enabled the company to gain the expertise to undertake any wiring and servicing requirements within the industrial sector. “When you have big clients like that, your business has to be reliable.”

But it’s not just a service which is available for large companies. “Our company motto is ‘customer service is everything.’ Our commitment to providing excellent customer service extends to all our clients, whether they’re domestic or commercial clients or an international fuel company. “We’re committed to Canterbury. We’ve both signed the pledge; we’re committed to the rebuild of the city. We’re in it for the long haul.” Stack Electrical 65e Brisbane Street, Sydenham Christchurch T (03) 379 4062 E info@stackelectrical.co.nz www.stackelectrical.co.nz — Advertising Feature

STACK ELECTRICAL

• DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • HEAT PUMP SUPPLY & INSTALLATION

Customer service is everything!

Ph. 379 4062 • www.stackelectrical.co.nz 112 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Property and Construction | Drainage and Construction Tasman

Skill base pays off The well documented tough economic times of recent years have taken their toll on more than the odd commercial operation. But diversification has paid dividends for one Nelson based business. The broad range of services and skills offered by Drainage and Construction Tasman Limited in Richmond has stood the company in good stead. Drainage and Construction Tasman was formed in 2006 and today employs 12 permanent and part-time staff, as well as subcontractors and casuals as required. The company offers a comprehensive range of services including drainage, sewage treatment systems, earthworks, gravel supplies, general construction and roofing. Located at 19A Mcpherson street, Richmond, it operates along side two sister companies — Tasman Bay Plumbing Services Ltd and New Zealand Solar Ltd. The company has grown considerably since it started with one truck and two excavators. As a registered drainlayer, initially the company did mostly drainage work and sewage treatment system installations and

Everything for every job under one roof.

servicing and a small amount of contracting, siteworks and foundations. Now Drainage and Construction Tasman offers a complete drainage service covering residential and commercial drainlaying, and also does the design, supply, installation and servicing of sewage treatment systems, which is an important part of the business. There is also a service truck operated by a qualified technician with a video camera for drain inspections and a waterblaster and drainlaying equipment to unblock drains. October 2010 the company purchased Abco Roofing which is proving to be a very good addition to the overall business.

towards that has been excellent, which has ensured them their jobs and contributed to the position the company now finds itself in.

Company growth

Forward work has been very encouraging over the last three to four months and the company is in a good position as the construction industry picks up. Drainage and Construction covers the top of the South Island, including the West Coast down to Westport and Greymouth. It operates a range of trucks and machinery to cover the various size jobs required.

Drainage and Construction now operates a range of different-sized excavators and trucks for doing general earthworks, site cuts, driveways and gravel supplies.

Part of that work involves building foundations right through to the completed concrete pad. Retaining walls, fencing and decking is also a part of the business and is often an add on by the owner when the job Drainage and Construction Tasman Limited reaches the completion stage of a project. This P O Box 3378 work is managed by one of the shareholders Richmond, Nelson 7050 who is a qualified builder. T (03) 543 8243 F (03) 544 8056 The company has been fortunate to attract E admin@tasmandrainage.co.nz enough work throughout the downturn due to the diversification of the business and the www.tasmandrainage.co.nz multi-skilled ability of the staff. Their attitude — Advertising Feature

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Property and Construction | Weirwalker Architecture

Taking shape:

Architecture’s The importance of good architecture has arguably never been more important to Christchurch than it is now. As a place to live, work and play, the shape and nature of the city will be determined for future generations by the decisions made in the next decade or so. And playing its part in this is Weirwalker Architecture, an award-winning Christchurch architectural practice offering a full range of high-quality design services. The company was formed in 2004 by directors Robert Weir and Jason Walker, who bring their considerable experience and expertise to every project.

Above: Weirwalker Architecture designed the new Heathcote Valley Inn, built this year to replace the original inn that was demolished after the September 2010 earthquake. Top: A stunning Spencerville home designed by Weirwalker Architecture.

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Weir has been designing modern architectural housing and commercial premises, as well as restorations for classical and heritage buildings, for more than 20 years. Walker’s understanding of projects and practical building applications have evolved from a design-and-construction heritage of family builders. Today they head a team of senior staff and experienced contractors, who undertake a broad range of architectural

services, including residential, commercial, industrial, interiors and resthomes. “Our core work is commercial and high-end residential, Weir says.”We’ve been involved in this work for a long time, as we both worked for another couple of big architectural practices before forming our own company.”

Architectural services Weirwalker Architecture’s commercial design services include business parks and office complexes, shopping precincts, multi-unit developments, preschools, resthomes and leisure centres. Its portfolio of commercial projects includes the HSBC Club Tower in Christchurch, the Lincoln Shopping Centre and the Ministry of Education. Its commercial interior designs include the Club Tower, the Eaton Office and the Redjack Bar. The company designs new homes, as well as high-quality renovations and extensions. Weirwalker specialises in modern design but has also worked on a number of older traditional homes as well. “We specialise in high-end architectural homes. We’ve done a number of large homes in Redcliffs and Fendalton, we have clients throughout New Zealand for both commercial and residential,” Weir says. He hopes the business will be able to take on another one or two permanent staff in the near future, but is cautious of growing the company too much. “Jason and I enjoy the challenges of the design work and are very conscious of not just becoming administrators. We enjoy working with our clients — it’s a balancing act.”

Property and Construction | Weirwalker Architecture

starring role Award-winning work

Weirwalker is at the forefront of sustainable design, from construction through to daily operation. Robert Weir and Jason Walker were founding members of the New Zealand Green Building Council, and include innovative sustainable design features in their projects, embracing Green Star building fundamentals. They have won two national awards for HSBC Club Tower in Christchurch, which was the first Green Star five-star building in the South Island and required adherence to strict green building requirements. “We’re innovative in sustainability and it’s becoming more the norm as people become more aware of the benefits and don’t see it as a funny science,” Weir says. “We can easily incorporate sustainable features into a project, and it’s becoming easier because there are more and more sustainable products available in New Zealand. When we did Club Tower we had to look overseas for products, but now the information is a lot easier to access and is available locally.”

Above: A beautiful Redcliffs home, designed by Weirwalker Architecture. Right: Weirwalker Architecture’s commercial portfolio includes the HSBC Club Tower, which stood up well in Christchurch’s earthquakes.

Friendly faces Weir says his company is open and friendly and staff take the time to listen to their clients and take on board their ideas. “Our success is due to good design, being able to work with clients and our ability to come up with innovative solutions. Not every site is an easy design and you have to think outside the square and come up with a design that complies with local town plans. It’s a matter of pushing the boundaries a bit with the town planners and council,” he says. He believes Weirwalker Architecture’s strengths are its designs and ability to form strong relationships with its clients. “Our client relationships are paramount and even when we’re quiet, our regular clients still keep coming back to us.” Feature continues on next page

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Property and Construction | Weirwalker Architecture Right: Weirwalker Architecture offers a range of specialty services, including interiors.

Earthquake rebuilding work HSBC Club Tower in Christchurch is a perfect example of sustainability and strength in architectural design, with the building standing up strong against the Christchurch earthquakes. Club Tower in Worcester Boulevard was designed by Weirwalker Architecture, which is very proud of the project. “It has performed extremely well in the earthquake,” says director Robert Weir. “We had three reviews by structural engineers completed after the February quake. The result was that the building has used up only two percent of its strength, which is nothing.”

modern building look like a heritage building. “It’s a consent to remove some of the heavy concrete panels and replace them with a light- It was completed on time and on budget.” weight concrete facade, which will perform Weir says it is his company’s commitment to better when there’s a shake,” says Walker. getting the detail exactly right that makes it “The original historical facade was destroyed. stand out from other architectural practices. That work is being done at the moment and “We take pride in our work and take the time should be finished by the end of October.” to get it right. Because of this, the majority of our work is repeat work and referrals.” Weirwalker Architecture designed the new Heathcote Valley Inn, which was built this Weirwalker is currently doing a lot of sketch Club Tower’s strength is due to its composite year to replace the original inn that was plans for earthquake rebuilds and expects the steel and concrete structure. demolished after the September 2010 earthquake work to pick up once the present earthquake. “We were the lead consultant on insurance issues are resolved. “It behaves well in earthquakes. It flexes and the Heathcote Valley Inn and we dealt with returns to its original position. It will swing a “We’ve been doing a bit of EQR work and all the resource consent and town planning bit more than some buildings but will always we’re involved with Hawkins Construction, issues. It’s a new take on an old pub that fits return to the vertical.” Arrow International and Fletchers Construction in with the original style,” Weir says. Weirwalker Architecture is one of the first for rebuilds and repairs,” Weir says. “We used modern construction methods, such companies to gain a building consent within While Weirwalker has plenty of work on as tilt slab panels, which are well concealed Christchurch’s red zone for the new Press its books, Robert Weir says they’re always behind a plastered facade. We’ve made a building in Gloucester Street. looking for exciting and challenging new projects. “We were quite busy through the recession. We’re members of the Retirement Villages Association of New Zealand and we do a bit of work in the resthome industry. That work carries us through the quiet periods.” ARCHITECTURAL WINDOW SYSTEMS The company has worked on a number of resthome projects, including Silverstream Lifestyle and Elmswood Retirement Villages.

We take pride in our work and take the time to get it right. Because of this, the majority of our work is repeat work and referrals. |

Robert Weir Weirwalker Architecture

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Attention pet lovers did you know?

What you feed your cat or dog directly affects how long they live and the quality of their life. Not all foods are created equal. There is only one way to establish what you’re really feeding your pet...read the ingredients! If you would like to discuss anything we’ve mentioned or would like to get sent some info and testimonials please give us a call, or go to our website to see the dozens of raving testimonials available. In fact a large number of clients are breeders, which is testament in itself, as these people take feeding their pets (their business), very seriously. These people normally spend a lot of time researching all options available and we’re pleased to say, they’re massive fans of our product.

In today’s competitive pet food industry, it’s hard to believe what may go into your pet food. Many companies (owned by multi-national corporations) have extensive marketing budgets, that portray a healthy pet jumping around, all thanks to their fantastic pet food. However, they seldom talk about ingredients. And to be frank, that is the most important element, followed closely by taste. Because let’s face it, if your pet doesn’t like the taste, they simply won’t eat it. (Unless it’s a Labrador....) Here’s the most important bit. The ingredients I’m not going to tell you how happy your pet will be or how high they will jump by using our pet food. I’m simply going to give you a quick lesson about ingredients and what to look for and what to avoid. The way ingredients are listed on packaging is the order that they are according to the percentage of food, so the first ingredient listed is the primary ingredient and so on down the list. Some list “by-products” as the first ingredient, usually chicken or beef. Now this doesn’t have to be a bad thing. One of the many problems with byproducts is what can go into the mix. So for cows this can mean bones, hooves, hides, hair, intestines, or with poultry by-products it can mean feet, beaks, feathers, bones, intestines, as well as the small trimmings that are left behind after they have been boned out for human consumption.

is that your animal’s stools will smell a lot better when they are fed a high quality, natural, highly digestible food that doesn’t have rancid meats and fats in it. Canidae lists chicken and turkey meal as their first ingredients. Chicken, turkey and lamb meals are dry and are less than 10% moisture and contain 50-65% meat proteins.

interesting fact!

By law, by-products don’t have to include any meat at all in order to be called chicken or beef by-products.

Products with by-products will of course look like any other pet food biscuit. The organic chemicals that make up the mush that remains will still register as amino acids and proteins etc, yet the fact is that a large percentage of it will be completely indigestible to your pet’s digestive system. This means your pet will be unable to harvest goodness for its body out of much of its food. This results in two things. First, you will have to feed more of the product to your pet to satisfy its nutritional requirements. Second, there will be more “unharvested remains” left to be picked up off your lawns. One of the huge benefits of feeding your pet a food that uses high quality ingredients is that there is less stool volume, because the animal is able to digest more of it. Another notable benefit

Here are results from three independent studies: 1) The Confidential Dog Food Report analysed over 2,000 pet foods and came up with the best nine. Canidae was one of them. The following dog foods available in New Zealand weren’t on the list; Beneful, Eukanuba, Iams, Pedigree, Purina One, Purina Pro Plan, Purina Dog Chow and Science Diet. 2) Each year The Whole Dog Journal (arguably the best dog journal in the world), rates dog foods from around the world and creates an “approved list” which includes approximately 25 foods. For more than 5 years Canidae has featured. The following

Canidae and Felidae contain 10 skin and coat conditioners with balanced Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty Acids: chicken fat, fish meal, flax seed, sunflower oil, lecithin, linoleic acid, rosemary, sage, vitamin E and biotin. Please go to our website or give us a call for the full Declaration of Ingredients. Without a declaration of ingredients, how do you really know what’s going into your pet’s food? Why haven’t you heard of us? Simply because we’re relatively new into New Zealand. We have hundreds of satisfied clients and this year we’ve doubled the number of clients from last year and this is literally growing daily. However, Canidae for dogs and Felidae for cats have been selling in America for many years and are consistently ranked in the top few by leading pet journals and publications including The Whole Dog Journal. We also don’t have the marketing budget of the huge corporations. In fact we have relied heavily on word of mouth, which works well, but we are now starting to do print and radio.

dog foods available in New Zealand aren’t on the list; Beneful, Eukanuba, Iams, Pedigree, Purina One, Purina Pro Plan, Purina Dog Chow and Science Diet. 3) Petsumer Report also does an independent study and ranks pet food out of five, with five being the absolute best. Here’s some of the results: Beneful 0 CANIDAE 4.2 Eukanuba 2.7 Iams 2.7 Pedigree 1 Purina One 1.9 Purina Pro Plan 2.1 Purina Dog Chow 1 Science Diet 1.5

Here is a quote that I recently read in The Whole Dog Journal, arguably the best independent dog journal in the world. “I’d like to quickly dismiss the idea that any of the giants – Iams and Eukanuba, Purina, Science Diet - could possibly make dry dog foods that are as good as the foods that have a regular presence on WDJ’s “approved foods” list, (such as Canidae). The fact is, though, of course they could; they have all the resources needed to do so. They could bury most of the competition in the “natural and holistic” niche...if they followed through and used only the same high-quality ingredients typically used by the smaller, boutique brands. But they generally stop short – perhaps because they are unaccustomed to paying a lot for their raw materials, or marketing the products at a correspondingly high sales price.” - Nancy Kerns Save you time and money As mentioned this is a premium product, and if we sold in pet stores or vets, it would command a huge price tag. However, as we don’t have a “middle man” we can sell it at a price comparable to other “premium” products. In addition to this, your pet will actually require less, as he/she will actually be able to digest and utilise more of the food, which also creates less stools. In addition to this we will take the hassle out of driving to your pet store, lugging the food into and out of your boot, as we will deliver to your door free of charge. Your satisfaction is assured every time you deal with us through our Make You Happy Guarantee If we ever let you down, we’ll ask “what can we do to make you happy?” So far we’ve never refused a customer’s request. And of course there’s a full money back guarantee on the product if your pet doesn’t like it.

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Call for a FREE sample and more information or call now to place an order. If you place an order this month WE’LL TAKE 33% OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER when you mention this advert. You’re probably wondering what’s the catch? Well we know that almost everyone who buys from us once, buys again, and again, and again!

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 117

Agribusiness | Xcell Breeding Services

Breeding for During the 1990s the dairy industry contributed 30 percent of the increase in New Zealand’s total export dollars earned. Tourism is about the same. Then there’s manufacturing with a 20 percent contribution. The dairy industry is important — but then that’s no newsworthy fact.

beef, deer and dairy cattle. This genetic improvement is tailored to top performance and all animal related industries are benefiting from such performance. Backed by more than 50 years of experience in the advanced animal breeding and genetics service fields, Xcell Breeding Services is one of the key players in genetic improvements in New Zealand. A reproductive technology company that encompasses all the major commercial New Zealand livestock species, Xcell Breeding Services is engaged in custom semen and embryo collection services to augment its clients’ merchandising abilities, both domestically and internationally.

What many don’t realise is that a very large part of New Zealand’s dairy success is directly related to the success of the country’s genetic modification. Progress in genetics has been The Xcell base is a purpose-built laboratory, significant and rapid, particularly in the last 50 storage and dispatch facility on more than years. But it’s not just our dairy industry which four hectares in Kaiapoi, 20 minutes north is enjoying the gains of genetic improvement. of Christchurch. Xcell Breeding Services is a registered semen centre from MAF BNZ The national lambing percentage has risen (NZ525), and has a registered embryo team from 90 percent in 1980 to 120 percent now. from MAF BNZ (NZE16). The average carcass weight of export lamb has risen from 13kg to 17kg during the same The company can comply with exporting period. In 22 years from 1980 to 2002, the semen and embryos worldwide except EU, average beef cattle calving rate has risen and meet standards as set out by OIE (a from 73 percent to 86 percent. In 14 years French-based organisation also known as the from 1990, the average weight of a steer at World Organisation for Animal Health). The slaughter has risen from 283kg to 307kg. company’s storage, dispatch and export/ import service facility has a reputation for By purchasing New Zealand animal products, delivery on time and in full. The team has the you are effectively buying generations of best reputation for practical applied science New Zealand scientific endeavour in and is recognised internationally for its ability discovering, developing and applying the to maximise specific clientele requirements. science of genetic improvement in sheep,

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Agribusiness | Xcell Breeding Services

best returns Now the biggest related company in the South Island, managing director Greg McKay explains it also likely has the most unusual beginnings. “We started in 1996 with just myself and Ian Macdonald, who is still here today. We worked out of an 18 foot caravan which we had gutted and turned into a mobile lab. We collected semen from cattle, deer and sheep, cryo-preserved it and stored it for clients. “It was basic pioneering for a company which is now a significant player in the industry.” An opportunity came up to lease a purposebuilt breeding centre, after its previous occupiers changed direction and relocated to the North Island. “We continued collecting semen, storing it and began offering an export and import service. We’ve basically grown and diversified from there.” The diversification he is referring to was the 2003 purchase of a veterinary practice in Templeton run by Jim McPhee. “We had plateaued in the business and gone as far as we could with what we were doing. The vet business was key to our expansion. Essentially it allowed us to double our business and we took on extra staff to accommodate that growth. “Today we are quite literally a one stop shop — we offer everything from veterinary advice through to reproductive advice, planning and systems,” McKay says.

Today Xcell offers excellent reproduction services in semen collection and processing, embryo transfer of deer, sheep, goats and cattle, and post mortem sperm recovery. The company operates a farm animal and horse clinical veterinary practice, including a full 24 hours a day, seven days a week service by utilising an after-hours roster with four veterinary associates. Xcell continues to offer a comprehensive cryogenic storage and dispatch service, with full material damage insurance, inclusive of earthquake cover, to protect your semen and embryos, both at the Xcell facility and in transit to and from your property. Quite simply, the key is semen collection and processing. “Our clients have elite sires, which are capable of producing elite progeny. We collect and process semen for merchandising, insurance purposes or exporting. “We collect, process and store this semen, but we also offer exporting, dispatch of product to artificial technicians around the world, as well as offering our own insemination service.”

Excelling in the industry Xcell produces a beef semen catalogue of what it considers the best bulls available, which goes to all the beef farmers in the country, including the data, figures and other information of the different bulls available. “It’s a substantial industry today,” McKay says. Feature continues on next page

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Xcell Breeding Services Ltd is backed by over 50 years of experience in the Advanced Animal Breeding and Genetics service fields both domestically and internationally. 175 Main Road | PO Box 165 | Kaiapoi 7644 | Ph. 03 327 9555 | Fax. 03 327 9088 | www.xcell.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz December 2011/January 2012 | 119

News | Regional Revival

Contain yourself By Kayte John

I think many of you will agree with me when I say — it has been quite a year in Christchurch. As 2011 draws to a close it’s clear that life does go on and although the city might have taken a pretty serious beating, it has prevailed. It may not look the same as it did before, but nine months on it is evolving — offering us new opportunities. You only have to look at the bars and shops opening up in shipping containers to be reminded that there is opportunity behind every setback. Many of us are discovering our new favourite places around the city. One of these new haunts is the Container Mall. The long wait is finally over for us to get back to Cashel Mall. It’s not the same mall we once remembered; it’s now a lowrise spacious and bright container complex. More than 20,000 people gathered in City Mall at the opening on October 29. It features 27 temporary shops housed in brightly painted shipping containers, representing a new beginning for Christchurch’s quake-ravaged CBD. The container mall is the first significant part of the inner city to reopen since the February earthquake. When I think of Cashel Mall I remember lunch hours wandering through Whitcoulls, being tempted by the smell of fresh doughnuts, enjoying two dollar rice from Dumplings on the wooden benches with fellow CBD workers, and the array of great clothes stores. My main memory is the walk along Cashel Mall to The Strip. At least once a week after finishing work I would meet friends on The Strip for an evening drink.

¡ Shops in the north precinct are Infinite Definite, Barkers, Trelise Cooper, Maher Shoes, Kooky, Hot Damn, Mini Cooper, Storm, D’Fusion, Simply NZ, Mimco, Kingan Jones, Yoobee, Ruby, 3 Wise Men, Crafted Coffee, Plush, Hapa, Kathmandu and the ASB bank. ¡ The south precinct includes Hunters and Collectors, Cosmic, Scorpio Books, Karen Walker-Ketzke, DieselWitchery Man, Gstar-Ben Sherman, Super Dry-Scotch & Soda, Lonsdale-Doosh, Armani Jeans-Ted Baker, Johnson’s Grocery, Toi Toi and Hummingbird Coffee. ¡ Ballantynes runs alongside the southern containers and its Contemporary Lounge is next door, in an open and spacious container. ¡ Three Wilsons carparks are available, charging $1 an hour, as well as a council carpark offering free parking for the first two hours.

my favourite British confectionery and wears the traditional white apron. I asked him about the opening and with a smile he replies, “It was the happiest day of my working life, I’ve never been so busy.” Johnson’s Grocery, originally opened in 1911, is possibly the last remaining grocery shop of its kind in New Zealand. Along with Johnson, Rachel Eadie, manger of Scorpio Books, said the weekend was manic. “We have been extremely busy, the opening was bigger than anticipated. We kicked off with a sale and it was crazy, spirits are up and everyone is supporting each other.” Cashel Mall is not the only place that’s hosting businesses out of these shipping containers. There are many containers opening around the city offering new cafés, bars and now clothes stores.

Unfortunately the last time I was in the city didn’t end up with a glass of wine in hand. I was forced to leave work, leave my belongings behind and walk home surrounded by the images that still haunt me to this day.

The Merivale container complex is set to open in four weeks time and bars such as Cargo Bar on Lincoln Rd and The Carlton Country Club on the corner of Bealey Ave and Papanui Rd are operating from containers and trucks.

After spending many months reminiscing about the old Cashel Mall I decided to put my thoughts and concerns behind me and embrace the new container mall. As soon as I enter Cashel Mall I see an abundance of people shopping, enjoying a coffee and simply nosing at what’s left of the city. After taking a stroll around the area it’s clear to see that vibrancy and optimism have returned to central Christchurch for the first time since the quake.

While joining a group of girls for morning coffee in Cashel Mall I ask them if they see these containers as a trend, I quickly get a reply saying, “I don’t think the people of Christchurch see this as a trend but as an opportunity and a new destination”. Another girl adds, “We have been without some of our favourtie bars, restaurants and shops for too long, its great that these containers can offer some life and entertainment back into the city”.

As I walk into Ballantynes it feels like I have never left. Swooning over cosmetics, I get chatting to a woman from Avonhead, she says, “Everything is beautifully presented, it’s great.” She’s not wrong, as I leave Ballantynes with my purchases I see the freshly planted gardens, hanging baskets, brightly coloured containers, hear live music and enjoy the friendly smiles of cheerful staff. The smell of fresh coffee complements all of this.

Janine Rendel, who works at the Ballantynes Contemporary Lounge says, “We have been so busy since the opening, we thought things would settle down in the week but we were wrong. I think people are excited to get back into the city, and with all these new places opening, people have a reason to get dressed up and go out again.”

The new container mall provides us with high-end fashion stores, two coffee shops, and some old favourites including Johnson’s Grocery and Scorpio Books. I popped in to visit Colin Johnson, owner of Johnson’s Grocery. The original store on Colombo Street provided us with thousands of items, neatly stacked on floor-to-ceiling shelves. Today he still has 12 | December 2011/January 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

What’s on offer:

Rendel, along with many store owners and staff, wants to stay in Cashel Mall as long as possible. Abby Donaldson, manager of boutique clothes store, Ruby, spent her first day as manager in its old High Street store when the February quake hit. However, this has not scared her away. “It’s fantastic to be back in the city. We were offered to move to the malls but that’s not what Ruby is about, we stood our ground and finally we are here — welcome back everyone.”

Agribusiness | Xcell Breeding Services

The range offered by Xcell Breeding Services… p Semen collection and processing — cattle, sheep, goats The purpose-built Xcell laboratories and semen collection facilities can accommodate almost every requirement. Xcell’s experienced staff can collect and process semen from a sire for the purpose of merchandising, genetic extension, insurance or export. The centre is compliant with export country protocols and the company also offers a custom collection service on your farm, travelling to anywhere in the country to collect semen from the sire, using a convenient and effective procedure. p Semen collection and processing — deer Xcell prides itself on its consistent success in semen collection from all deer species. Its highly skilled team has an excellent reputation using its own technique of deer semen collection both in New Zealand and internationally. Semen collection from deer is a very delicate procedure, one that should be handled by an experienced team. The Xcell team consistently gets results for its clients’ merchandising, genetic extension, insurance, or exporting needs. This service is used by commercial deer farmers and stud breeders alike. p Artificial insemination (AI) Xcell has a team of highly skilled technicians experienced in cattle, sheep, deer and goats, from small to large scale programs, synchronisation and advice. Its team provides a same day fresh semen collection and insemination service on your farm and can source genetics for your program from any species you may require, through its own catalogues or through its large network of clients. p Embryo transfer — deer, sheep, goats, cattle Xcell’s Kaiapoi base is a registered embryo export centre for sheep and goats and the company provides this quarantine facility for export and domestic production purposes. Xcell manages all the embryo programming and the surgery, from donors through to the recipients, from fresh transplant or freezing.

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p Fertility testing The demands of buyers on breeders and suppliers of livestock to provide quality fertility tested animals to the market are ever-increasing. Xcell offers an efficient fertility testing service on your property. The company will collect and evaluate the semen quality of your sale animal. This piece of mind assurance can verify the fertility of your animal pre-sale to the buyer.

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p Post mortem sperm recovery If a valuable sire accidentally dies or is harvested as a trophy you can still retain his genetics. Xcell has developed a method of semen extraction from the animal after death. p Storage and distribution Xcell offers a comprehensive cryogenic storage and despatch service. With full material damage insurance, inclusive of earthquake in place to protect your semen and embryos. Xcell has cryogenic vats for long term storage of licensed domestic and export qualified semen and embryos. All semen and embryos are stored with that of equivalent health status and there is no minimum storage requirement. Xcell has a separate facility where we can store unlicensed semen. The company dispatches daily in both non restrictive vapour shippers and liquid shippers and aims to send overnight to main centers and within 72 hours to rural addresses. All dispatches are traceable. Xcell has semen units available for short term hire. p Import/export of semen or embryos Xcell is licensed by New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA) as an importer and exporter of semen and embryos. Our team arranges all the appropriate documentation and act on your behalf in importing or exporting your valuable product. Xcell has experience in exporting and importing to 52 countries. Xcell has vast experience in applying its reproductive technology in other countries. Its teams are well tuned to the challenges of working in unfamiliar environments. Xcell has gained an excellent international reputation for practically applied animal reproduction techniques. p Training school Xcell offers a professional and practical training school in animal reproduction to all international clients, from semen collection and processing, artificial insemination, cervical or with a laparoscope, fertility testing and semen analysis, post mortem sperm recovery and embryo surgery. This covers all the major livestock species. Xcell provides all relevant materials for the required training, this can be from one day through to individual requirements. Xcell is prepared to travel to other countries to apply the same training techniques.

This makes for a competitive industry. “We set ourselves aside from our competitors by providing a one-stop shop. Many of our competitors will provide just one or two of the services we provide, from veterinary advice to programming and reproductive services.” Like with any industry, it does have its challenges. “For us the key challenge is compliance, which is an ongoing challenge. Because we are an export company, we have to do biannual audits through MAF Biosecurity, and with constantly changing regulations it adds costs.” Another key challenge is keeping up with the latest technology. “We have to keep up with technology in the semen and embryo production fields, in order to maintain a competitive edge, which is also about selecting bulls which suit New Zealand

farmers. Maintaining consistency in product generally is important. Our semen and embryos have to meet high standards, because poor quality reflects in the results.” Without high standards, Xcell Breeding Services would not have grown from a smallscale collection and storage unit operating from a caravan, to one the largest players in the advanced animal breeding and genetics service fields in the country. The reason is quite simple; you don’t get to be one of the best, by producing less than the best. Xcell Breeding Services 175 Main North Road Kaiapoi T (03) 327 9555 E greg@xcell.co.nz www.xcell.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Maintenance l PC troubleshooting and diagnostics l System tune-up and optimisation l Hardware inventory l Physical cleaning.

effective service Quality service backed up by years of experience is the simple formula for success that has worked well for IT business Server Technology.

Being innovative in its approach to challenges is how the company has kept its long-time customers.

A recent big project Server Technology has been working on is for an international company; replacing its current systems with new ones.

Server Technology E enquiries@servertechnology.co.nz www.servertechnology.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

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