Stay Functioning Dyani Van Basten Batenburg
Why this year’s work Christmas party’s a winwin for mind, body and soul
W
ith screentime, ZOOM meetings and work-from-home mode firmly planted in our daily to-dos, breaking the new normal and getting out and about with colleagues and workmates has never been so important.
Make for the trees Celebrating end-of-year successes is a must-do, and there’s no better way to show you care than tuning into natures finest, says Bruce Thomasen
of Rotorua’s famous Treewalk – set within the majestic Redwoods Forest. “It’s a unique experience through and through – day and night. At Christmas, it’s the perfect time to have breakfast in the forest, or perhaps afternoon tea with Redwood themed cup-cakes, or canapes and pre-dinner drinks,” enthuses Bruce. And for those wanting to challenge their team to something a little more adventurous – go out on a limb. “Our Altitude product on the other hand is for those wanting an extra thrill, big heights and adventure. It is fully guided and harnessed, and looms at 25m high, features two spirals, 25 jungle bridges, three flying foxes and one big jump descent – a great team building option!” Like many businesses feeling their way through a COVID-19 environment, the opportunity to look at what really matters, is something not lost on Bruce and his Treewalk team. “Being in nature and amongst a 120-year-old forest is inspiring and for some, healing. It’s a great option because all of the team can do it, we cater for two to 250 people.”
Aim for the sky Branching out and taking your team to new heights are sentiments Andrew Jensen and his team at Rotorua Skyline attest to. “Company events are a great way to bring your team closer together – break down walls and barriers, and help employees to engage beyond the everyday routine,” he says. And, the diversity of Skyline Rotorua’s offerings makes it the ultimate player to help businesses achieve stronger ties, says Andrew. “Skyline Rotorua has something for everyone! Head up the scenic gondola ride – on the side of Mt
Ngongotaha – and then jump into a fun-filled luge ride down the Scenic Track with your team and enjoy the casual and rustic setting of the Hidden Forest venue that awaits you at the bottom,” he enthuses. “Or take a turn at ziplining or on the Skyswing, then meet your group at Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar and enjoy a delicious buffet.” And, for those wanting a parred back, leisurely get-together, Skyline delivers both the action-packed and the cool, calm and collected. “The VH wine tasting room is set up so you can pop in and take your senses on a trip around our country,” says Andrew. “We also have the best view in town, so find a spot in our terraced setting or take a stroll on our walking track and say hello to our resident alpacas.”
Take a cruise Taking time out to share an experience with your team mates, bask in natural beauty and enjoy the bounties of Lake Taupō, is the ticket to signing off a significantly challenging year. So, why not cruise the lake in style and celebrate everyone’s hard 19
