The Loop
Business Feature: Caterpillar Cafe and Eatery
We are the Pukekohe Business Association.
Administration
The Pukekohe Business Association is dedicated to empowering local businesses and contributing to a prosperous Pukekohe. We are involved in many facets of our town to help businesses thrive, residents prosper and our town flourish, but our first priority is supporting our members’ businesses. We do this in a number of ways:
Promotion
• Marketing campaigns that showcase local businesses and town attractions
• Inclusion in an online business directory
• Events, promotions, beautification projects and placemaking that attract customers to town
• Free job & event listings
Business Development
• Free, high-value workshops and training opportunities
• Subsidies valued at $3,000+GST for each full business member
Networking & Connections
• Sharing PBA updates, local business news & events, sponsorship and development opportunities
• Regular business and industry events
• Opportunities to engage with community
• A network of local businesses
Advocacy & Security
• Fostering relationships with Police, schools, govt agencies, Auckland Council & its subsidiaries, Franklin Local Board, community groups and industry associations (among others) to benefit local business
• Advocating on policies and initiatives that create positive outcomes for the business community
• Business security group
• Increasing network of CCTV security and CPTED placemaking
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to provide valuable, useful information in this publication, the Business Association accepts no responsibility or any form of liability from reliance upon or use of its contents. Any suggestions should be considered carefully within your own particular circumstances, as they are intended as general information only.
General Manager Shawna Coleman shawna@pukekohe.org.nz
Operations Assistant Alexandra Hind alexandra@pukekohe.org.nz
The Good Guys Te Ao Haara-Wehi thegoodguys@pukekohe.org.nz
Committee
Melissa van den Brink Chairperson Smith & Sons Renovations & Extensions Franklin
Philippa O’Mara Treasurer Engine Room Chartered Accountants
Alison Daldy
Franklin Hospice Pukekohe
Craig Patterson
Family Flooring Design Pukekohe
Lara Hellier People Passion
Max Boniface Mag & Turbo Pukekohe
Follow us on socials @pukekoheba pukekohe.org.nz info@pukekohe.org.nz
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Brooke Druyven brooke@pukekohe.org.nz
The Good Guys Brenda Rusden thegoodguys@pukekohe.org.nz
Peter Elliot
Vice Chairperson Computer Food
Merritt Watson Franklin Local Board Representative
Ash Hawke
Signmax Pukekohe
Kirsty Bullen
Campbell Tyson Chartered Accountants
Maree Trow
Stirling Sports Pukekohe
Petrea Parkhill Franklin Law
Manager’s Report: Back Where We Belong At 217 King Street
After three months of “living” in the old Habitat for Humanity building, we’re delighted to be back home in our office on King Street.
Many of you will remember the flooding that affected our office in January. While the repair work was being completed, we took the opportunity to reimagine our workspace and ensure it could better support our growing team.
The result is a bright, open and welcoming environment that encourages collaboration, creativity and, of course, plenty of team banter. The new layout gives us more room to work together, hold team meetings and continue delivering the best possible support for our members and the wider business community.
One thing that hasn’t changed is our commitment to providing useful resources for our members. Our meeting rooms remain available for businesses to hire and are perfect for meetings, workshops or training sessions. Half-day and full-day bookings are available for a small fee, so please get in touch if you’d like to make use of the space.
While working from a temporary location was an interesting experience, we certainly missed being back at street level in the heart of town.
One of the things we love most about our location is being part of the daily rhythm of Pukekohe, watching the hustle and bustle outside our window and being easily accessible to our members and the community.
There’s nothing quite like having local business owners, members and community supporters pop in for a quick chat, to ask a question or simply say hello. Those everyday interactions are an important part of what makes the PBA special, and we’re thrilled to be back where we belong.
If you’re passing by, we’d love for you to stop in, check out the refreshed office and say hello to the team. The kettle is always on, and our door is always open.
By Shawna Coleman, General Manager of the PBA
What’s On
Where we keep you in The Loop on everything that’s been happening lately. Catch up on the events, highlights, and happenings you might have missed! Find out more on any of the below by contacting us at brooke@pukekohe.org.nz.
THE LOOP IS GOING DIGITAL!
After many years in print, The Loop has gone digital! Going online means we can link directly to local businesses and gain valuable insights into readership, helping us create even better content.
FRANKLIN BUSINESS SERIES: LEADERSHIP
Presented by Mike Marr, learn how purposeful leadership can drive performance, connection, and growth. Tickets are free, but spots are limited! Click here for more information.
CHRISTMAS ON THE GREEN SPONSORSHIP
Christmas on the Green 2026 sponsorship opportunities are now available! Join us in creating another unforgettable Christmas while showcasing your business to thousands of locals. Click here for more info.
TOWN CENTRE UPGRADE ON THE WAY!
If you thought our Town Square was a great spot for markets before, just wait until you see what’s coming!
Auckland Council’s Te Puutahi o Pukekohekohe upgrade will include a permanent parklet, refreshed playground, new seating and planting, improved sightlines and safer pedestrian connections. Roulston Street and Devon Lane will also become more flexible spaces for markets and community events.
The Pukekohe Farmers and Artisans Market will take a break during construction, but they’ll be back once the upgrade is complete.
We’ll keep you updated as plans progress!
PBA Good Guys
WECLOME TO THE TEAM TE AO!
Please join us in giving a warm Pukekohe welcome to Te Ao, who has officially joined the Pukekohe Business Association’s Good Guys team.
With Jack’s fixed-term contract coming to an end, we’re thrilled to have Te Ao on board to help continue the great work of keeping our town looking its best.
Over the coming weeks, you’ll see Te Ao out and about alongside Brenda, learning the ropes and becoming a familiar face around the town centre.
If you happen to see him while you’re out and about, be sure to say hello and make him feel welcome.
QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS WITH T
What’s your favourite shop in Pukekohe?
Pik N Mix - chocolate raisins yum!
Favourite movie or TV show?
Paid In Full
Pineapple on pizza: yes or no??
No that’s despicable.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
Fire powers!
Local Board Update
MORE THAN JUST TRAIN STATIONS
The opening of the new Paerātā and Drury stations, followed by Ngākōroa next year, represents a major shift in how people move around Franklin.
Pukekohe Station currently has around 100 formal commuter parks. Paerātā and Drury each add 350 spaces, with room to expand to 500, while Ngākōroa will add another 150. Combined with new bus routes feeding into the rail network, this gives commuters far more choice.
Public transport won’t suit everyone, and it doesn’t need to. A well-functioning transport network relies on trains, buses, walking, cycling and private vehicles all working together.
It is estimated that 15% of Auckland’s jobs are within walking distance of a City Rail Link station. That density puts pressure on all major arterial routes in and out of the CBD.
Every person who chooses the train instead of driving into the CBD is one less car travelling through bottlenecks like the Drury Interchange. So even if you only drive as far as Papakura for work, or commute elsewhere by car, you’ll still benefit from reduced congestion and a more efficient transport network.
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Merritt Watson, Franklin Local Board
Amy, Taniya and Aman
Hungry For More: Caterpillar Cafe
He’ll be greeting regulars by name, remembering their coffee orders, checking in with his team - and possibly tweaking the AI tools he’s built to help the café run more smoothly.
Hospitality and software engineering might sound like an unusual combination, but for Aman, the two go hand in hand.
Aman arrived in New Zealand in 2015 and quickly found himself drawn to Pukekohe. Before owning Caterpillar Café, he worked in both cheffing and software engineeringtwo paths that have shaped how he runs the business today.
From the outside, café ownership can look pretty dreamy. Great coffee, beautiful food and happy customers - but there’s plenty happening behind the scenes. Pop into Caterpillar Café and you’ll likely find owner Aman Singh doing a little bit of everything.
“Business from what you see to what’s happening below the surface is highly contrasted... there are many sleepless nights.”
Equipment stops working, staff get sick, costs change and then there’s the world of online reviews.
“A good review can make you feel euphoric,” he says. “A bad one can really impact your reputation.”
But Aman has learnt that nothing is more valuable than the loyal customers who keep coming back.
“I could probably name around 20 people I see every week and know exactly what they order.”
To Aman, customer service is about knowing people, remembering what they like and understanding their tastes. Sometimes that means suggesting something new or customising a meal or drink to suit them.
That connection is one of the things he loves most about doing business in Pukekohe.
“People come here because they specifically want what you have and they like what you do.”
That care extends to his team. Aman understands that behind every successful café are people with families and commitments outside of work.
“People need leave, they get sick, they have kids and responsibilities. It’s about having understanding and supporting them.”
He gives a special shout-out to Amy, Pooja and Jay, as well as his wife, Taniya, whose support has played a huge part in the journey.
Aman hasn’t left his software engineering background behind either. He has developed an AI-powered system specifically for Caterpillar Café, which helps monitor expenses, identify unnecessary spending and find where profit may be slipping through the cracks.
“It’s always being tweaked,” he says with a smile.
He has also redesigned the café’s website himself. Whether it’s the technology, the food or the atmosphere, Aman is always looking for ways to improve.
His biggest advice for anyone considering a hospitality business? “Do the market analysis.”
While the numbers matter, Aman believes that you won’t always get the full story. A café changes with its ownership - “It’s like a change of flavour.”
Success isn’t guaranteed by taking over someone else’s figures. You need to understand the community, prepare for long hours and genuinely enjoy the work. “You have to love it,” Aman says.
“There’s a lot of work.”
“Always go the extra mile. Remember their name and their order - that personal touch is everything. ”
Looking back over the past two years, Aman is proud of what Caterpillar Café has become, but quick to recognise he hasn’t done it alone.
“I wouldn’t have been able to do any of it without the people around me.”
He’s also proud to be the first generation of his family building a life in New Zealand and credits the “awesome support” surrounding him.
Art Installation above the cafe
So, what’s next? Aman has ideas for more colour, murals and an even warmer, more vibrant space.
Plants are on the wish list too, but there’s one small problem. “They always seem to die. I need to not go near them because they just die on me!” he laughs. So perhaps don’t buy Aman a houseplant.
Coffee, though, is another story. Depending on the day, Aman laughs that he can easily get through six cups. If he could sit down and share one with anyone, it would be Nikola Tesla. “He was a brilliant genius, but he was also a lone warrior against the odds. I relate to that.”
As our conversation wraps up, Aman leaves us with three words that sum up his approach to business and life: “Enjoy the process.”
With loyal customers, a wonderful team and plenty of ideas for what comes next, it’s clear he’s doing exactly that.
The BEST warm choc chip cookies
AI in Austin:
Notes from the Ground
We’ve just returned from our second trip to Austin, Texas this year as we continue building relationships and expanding RAZOR’s work in the United States.
Austin has earned its reputation as one of the world’s leading technology hubs, so while we were there we spent time meeting with business owners, technology leaders and enterprise organisations to better understand how AI is being adopted across different industries.
There are really two AI stories happening at the same time.
At one end of the spectrum are organisations using AI to solve highly specialised operational challenges, such as identifying hazards on airport runways through computer vision. While not relevant to most small businesses, these examples demonstrate just how diverse AI applications have become.
But that’s only part of the picture.
Whether we were talking with small business owners or leadership teams within much larger organisations, many of the conversations were surprisingly familiar.
For small and medium-sized businesses, there is still a distinct gap between using AI tools and understanding how to apply AI strategically across
the business. Many organisations continue to rely on traditional ways of working, even where AI could remove repetitive tasks, improve consistency and create a genuine competitive advantage. The technology is available, but the understanding of how to apply it effectively is still developing.
Within larger organisations, the conversation shifts. The challenge isn’t whether people are using AI- it’s knowing how it’s being used. Staff are increasingly creating their own AI agents and automated workflows, often without formal governance. Several conversations highlighted the growing challenge for leadership to maintain visibility over how many AI agents exist across the organisation, what information they can access, and how they’re being managed.
One final observation was that AI is becoming a new language for business. Whether we were speaking with founders, CEOs or enterprise change managers, everyone was somewhere on the same learning curve. Some had developed a strong understanding of where AI could create value, while others were only just beginning to explore the possibilities. As AI continues to evolve, one of the biggest challenges for organisations will be building a common understanding across their teams. Like any new language, AI requires people to learn new concepts, new ways of thinking and new ways of working. That’s why successful AI adoption is proving to be just as much about education and change management as it is about the technology itself.
The Herbary
Devon Lane mural
Seddon Park
The Urban Market
Set Your Business Up for Success
Whether you’re flying solo, managing a growing team or somewhere in between, understanding your finances is one of the best things you can do for your business.
And no, that doesn’t mean you need to become an accounting expert overnight! It simply means knowing what’s coming in, what’s going out and what’s already spoken for - because unfortunately, everything sitting in the bank account isn’t necessarily yours to spend.
A few good habits can make a huge difference:
- Keep your financial records accurate and up to date.
- Use a separate bank account for business income and expenses.
- Regularly set aside money for tax and levies.
- Create a realistic budget and plan for quieter periods.
- Keep an eye on who owes you money... and don’t be afraid to follow up!
One of the easiest ways to give your cash flow a helping hand is to invoice as soon as the job is finished or the product has been delivered. Make sure your payment terms and due date are clear, then follow up promptly if the invoice becomes overdue. You’ve done the work - you deserve to be paid for it!
It’s also worth getting familiar with a few useful financial tools. A cash flow forecast helps you look ahead at what’s expected to come in and
go out, while your profit and loss statement shows how the business has performed over a set period. Your budget helps guide your spending, and your balance sheet gives you a snapshot of what the business owns and owes.
If numbers really aren’t your thing, you don’t have to tackle them alone. A good accountant or bookkeeper can help you understand what your figures are telling you, stay on top of your obligations and make more confident decisions.
It’s also a good idea to regularly check that your pricing still reflects the true cost of doing business. Materials, subscriptions, supplier costs and other expenses can creep up over time, meaning a product or service that was once profitable may no longer be pulling its weight. Set aside time every few months to review your figures, spot any changes and make adjustments where needed. Being busy is great, but making sure that busyness is actually profitable is even better!
For more practical tips, free templates and easy-to-use tools, head to the Business Finance section on Business.govt.nz. Their cash flow forecaster is a particularly handy place to start.
Keen to learn more? Click here to visit the business.govt.nz website and see
Frankly Small: 2.0
The Franklin Arts Festival Society (FAFS) presents the second Frankly Small Art Show!
Following the outstanding success of its inaugural exhibition in 2025, Frankly Small returns this year with even more on offer. The exhibition was exceptionally well received by both artists and visitors, praised for its welcoming atmosphere, high-quality artwork and accessible format. Its success has enabled the Society to expand the exhibition for 2026, increasing the maximum artwork dimensions from 30cm × 30cm × 30cm to 40cm × 40cm × 40cm, allowing for an even greater variety of work.
The “Frankly Small” exhibition
The continued success of Frankly Small is made possible through the support of the wider Franklin community. FAFS is grateful to the local businesses, organisations and sponsors who recognise the importance of investing in the arts and helping create opportunities for artists and audiences to connect. The generous support of organisations including the Pukekohe Business Association has been instrumental in enabling the Society to deliver a high-quality exhibition, support artists through prize opportunities and continue growing this important community event.
Behind the exhibition, the Franklin Arts Festival Society has been supporting and celebrating the visual arts across the Franklin region since 1989. As a volunteer-led charitable organisation, FAFS provides opportunities for emerging, amateur and established artists to exhibit, connect with audiences and contribute to a thriving local arts community.
Kicking off with a fabulous opening ceremony on Friday 11 September 2026 at the Franklin: The Centre - tickets are available now at www. franklinartsfestival.co.nz. The exhibition will be open daily in the NZ Steel Gallery and Community Gallery from 12–26 September, with koha entry.
Small art on display
September Is Going to Be Delicious!
Pukekohe on a Platter is back this September, and we’re getting ready to celebrate all the incredible food, drinks and hospitality we have right here in Pukekohe!
This year, we’re changing things up. Rather than running a competition, it’s all about putting the spotlight on our local cafés, restaurants, bars, bakeries and eateries - and giving everyone a very good excuse to get out and try them.
Throughout September, we’ll be sharing tasty dishes, delicious drinks, exciting events and plenty of behind-the-scenes goodness from our local
hospitality businesses. You might discover a new favourite, revisit somewhere you haven’t been in a while or finally try that place you keep saying you’ll go to!
There are heaps of ways other businesses can get involved too. Shout the team a morning tea, organise a staff lunch or dinner, meet a client over coffee, order local catering or say thank you with a voucher from one of our awesome eateries.
Even the little things help - share their posts, leave a review, recommend your favourite spot or bring visiting friends and family into town for a meal.
Our hospitality businesses bring so much life and flavour to Pukekohe. This September, let’s show them some love - and enjoy plenty of good food while we’re at it!
PUKEKOHE ON A 1 - 30 SEPTEMBER
How Can We Help Your Business?
Being part of the Pukekohe Business Association is about more than simply having your business listed as a member. There are plenty of ways we can support, promote and connect your business - so let’s make sure you know what’s available!
Check What Subsidies Are Available
Full PBA members may be able to apply for subsidies of up to $3,000 + GST to improve their premises, strengthen their advertising and much more. The subsidies available may change, so if you’re planning an improvement or investment, check with us first!
Keep Your Business Details Updated
Every member receives a listing on the PBA website, helping customers find local businesses, products and services. Take a moment to check yours and let us know if your contact details, opening hours, website links or business description need updating.
Tell Us What’s Happening
Have you launched something new, welcomed a team member, reached a milestone or got an event coming up? Tell us! We regularly promote member businesses through social media, newsletters, giveaways and marketing campaigns - but we can’t share what we don’t know about.
Come Along to Business & Beers
Held at a different member business each month, Business & Beers is a relaxed way to meet local business owners, build relationships and discover new customers, suppliers or
collaborators. No awkward networking rulesjust useful conversations and a drink or two!
Keep Learning and Connecting
Throughout the year, we offer training, workshops, information evenings, guest speakers and mentorship opportunities. Make sure you’re receiving our Weekly Wrap and members-only updates so you don’t miss what’s coming up.
Talk to Us
If an issue is affecting your business or wider sector, come and speak with us. We can bring businesses together, facilitate sector meetings and raise shared concerns with Auckland Council, the Franklin Local Board, Police and other key stakeholders.
Your membership becomes more valuable when you use it. Send us your news, attend an event, check your business listing or simply pop into the office for a chat - we’d love to hear how we can help!
Pukekohe Puzzles
Spot The Difference
Winner From the Last Issue:
Congratulations to Sam Wawatai from KW Fitness who has won the $50 voucher for guessing 10 in the last issues’ spot the difference!
Spot the 6 differences, scan the QR code, and let us know where they are to win a $50 voucher to a Pukekohe business of your choice!
Scan me with the number of differences for a chance to WIN!
Local Celebrations
Mai Lighthouse has been selected as a “Good in the Hood” charity at Z Bombay! Make sure you fuel up there, collect your token, and vote for them!
Mai Lighthouse mailighthouse.org.nz
Congratulations to Hunter Withers, Computer Food and ourselves on being nominated for the People’s Choice Award - South! Hopefully, a Pukekohe business takes the cake!
Hunter Withers & Computer Food
New Members
We love sharing member stories, milestones, and achievements with the community - but we can only do that if you let us know!
Click here to share your news with us
Fisher Pukekohe
Windows & Doors 84 John Street, Pukekohe fisherwindows.co.nz
Kat’s Natural Solutions
Natropath 14 Nelson Street, Pukekohe katsns.nz
Rerehua Boutique
Boutique Retail 197 Manukau Road, Pukekohe rerehuaboutique.com
Card Merchant Outlet
Hobby Store 7A Hall Street, Pukekohe cardmerchantoutlet.co.nz
Kunning Kobald Hobbies
Hobby Store 24 King Street, Pukekohe kunningkoboldhobbies.com
Beststart Pukekohe
Childcare 32 Muster Road, Pukekohe best-start.co.nz
