Chairman’s Report NGĀTI AWA GROUP HOLDINGS LTD NGĀTI AWA ASSET HOLDINGS LTD
On behalf of the Board I present this report on the activities of Ngāti Awa Group Holdings Limited and Ngāti Awa Asset Holdings Limited (jointly referred to as the Group) in what can only be described as a very challenging year. During the first five and a half months of the financial year’s activities the Group was on pace to achieve a record result across all of its business units. The last six months of the reporting period has proven to be the most demanding the Group has ever faced.
WHAKAARI ERUPTION
COVID-19
The eruption on 9 December 2019 has been traumatic and devasting for all, but most particularly the victims of this tragedy – the loss of many lives and the ongoing injuries suffered has been front of mind for Directors and staff.
Like almost all businesses the COVID outbreak impacted our operations. In particular extra precautions had to be put in place to ensure continuation of our “essential” activities – horticulture and our ongoing farming enterprises. Other lines of business were significantly impacted.
Nō reira, moe mai rā, okioki mai e te hūnga kua riro ki tua o Paerau. Haere atu, e hoki ki o mātua, ki o tūpuna, me kī nei, kua oti kē te moko o aituā te tā ki runga i a koutou. Moe mai, moe mai, okioki mai. We have been particularly concerned about the impact of the eruption and its aftermath on White Island Tours’ staff and as such, continue to provide access to counselling services and as much other support as possible. At the time of writing both the WorkSafe investigation and the Coronial inquiry into the eruption are ongoing. The Directors and staff of White Island Tours Limited have and continue to provide their full co-operation with these inquiries. The eruption has resulted in significant financial losses for White Island Tours Limited. Boat tours to Whakaari and Moutohorā/Whale Island wildlife sanctuary were suspended immediately following the eruption. Our newest vessel that was launched in April 2019, Te Puia Whakaari, needs extensive repairs and is still the subject of ongoing insurance negotiations.
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TE RŪNANGA O NGĀTI AWA | 2020 ANNUAL REPORT