Taranaki Business Review Magazine - Spring 2025 by taranakichamber

TARANAKI Business Review

SPRING 2025

FROM THE CEO

KIA ORA TE WH NAU!

Gas is required for NZ industry, not just for electricity

Saying “we told you so” way back in April 2018, is not going to solve the problem. As the voice of business for Taranaki, the Chamber aims to be part of the solution, working alongside stakeholders. The background to this scenario is the previous government’s decision to stop issuing permits for offshore oil and gas. This all but killed an industry, without the government having a workable back up plan. The short sightedness of this hasty, ill-considered decision drove away not only investors, but also skilled labour away from Taranaki and Aotearoa. Taranaki voices were totally ignored at the time. Even when de-industrialisation occurred with the recent closure of Winstone pulp mills and Oji Fibres paper recycling mills, nobody said too much. Hundreds of workers were laid off, because electricity prices had forced these businesses to shut down.

Now that Ballance has announced a likely closure of its fertiliser manufacturing plant

WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS

• Best Electrical Taranaki

Beta Climbing Gym

Bizeco

• BMinds AI

• Careerforce

• Cybergrape

Early Settler

Elizabeth Craig – Friend of the Chamber

Arun Chaudhari CEO

in Kapuni, affecting the huge agricultural sector, more New Zealanders have become concerned. Natural gas is not only used as fuel in power stations, but also to manufacture industrial products like ammonia, which is used in fertiliser for our farms. As a region and a nation, let us not be blinded by rhetoric about the country not needing natural gas in the near future. The nation has resorted to use imported coal as a back-up fuel, to replace gas. The reality is that burning coal creates about 75% (on an average) more pollution than burning gas. Importing it by ships, creates even more carbon emissions.

Local body elections

It’s that time of the year again. Three years between elections do come around very quickly. We ratepayers love to criticise council decisions. It’s a regular sport to have a go at councils. However, it is important to remember that we ratepayers are the ones who decide which candidates will be successfully elected into Council, through a

Energy Motors

• EnviroNZ

• Eruera Ranger – Friend of the Chamber

• Ever need a Dave

• Frank and Fearless

Glasgow Scaffolding & Rigging

Inspec Energy NZ

democratic voting process.

With local body elections just round the corner, I can only reiterate to each eligible voter - please get to know your candidates Know where they stand on issues that are important to you. The Chamber wants to know their stance on local businesses and local industry. Are they well informed? Do they have the interests of business at heart? Will they advocate for us? I encourage you to find out. And I encourage you to vote.

By following the above, we can ensure that our local government reflects the values and aspirations of our community. Let’s not leave our future to chance.

Did you know that less than 40% of the world’s eligible population gets to vote in a truly free and fair democratic election? It would be a shame not to exercise this privilege.

Arohanui

Parininihi ki Waitotara Inc

• Persona Costume Hire and Sewing Alterations

• Reo Kōrero

• Shaun Smith – Friend of the Chamber

• Shirley’s Lawn Mowing

• The Unbaked Bakery

Timbre Landscape Architecture + Design Ltd

Viking Water Solutions

• Virtus Group

• Vulcan Steel

• Wash Squad

Wellbeing at Work Xaver

TARANAKI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Chamber House, 42 Egmont Street, PO Box 2, New Plymouth 4340 | PH: +64 6 759 9080 | E: admin@taranakichamber.co.nz I www.taranakichamber.co.nz

CEO Arun Chaudhari ceo@taranakichamber.co.nz | 027 279 5161

PARTNERSHIP & PROJECTS MANAGER

Maura Young maura@taranakichamber.co.nz | 021 284 0062

ADVOCACY & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Michelle Brennan michelle@taranakichamber.co.nz | 021 710 950

EVENT MANAGER

Jo Whyte jo@taranakichamber.co.nz | 021 533 300

OFFICE MANAGER

Julia Collins julia@taranakichamber.co.nz

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Nickelle Egan

nickelle@taranakichamber.co.nz | 027 327 8739

MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR

Rebecca Mende rebecca@taranakichamber.co.nz | 027 432 2293

ADMINISTRATOR

Fran Bateman fran@taranakichamber.co.nz

YOUNG ENTERPRISE SCHEME COORDINATOR

Megan Lepper megan@taranakichamber.co.nz | 027 586 6558

PLACEMENT SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Melissa Keith melissa@taranakichamber.co.nz | 021 225 4531

ACCOUNTS

Jo Vincent accounts@taranakichamber.co.nz

CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS

Chair – Jessica Parker – Taranaki Arts Festival Trust

Deputy Chair – Grace Wesolowska – GW Consulting Ltd

Shane Devlin – Graphix

Sam Tyson – Measle

Andrew Pepper – Pepper Construction

Priyaanka Khatri – Govett Quilliam Lawyers

Rebecca Johnson – Venture Taranaki

Kerry Boielle – TSB Bank

Justin Peterson – Wells

Melissa Peters -BDO Taranaki

FEATURE WRITER

Virginia Winder – Wētāwoman Writes Everything

DESIGN & PRINT

Graphix | www.graphix.co.nz

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS MAGAZINE

Contact: admin@taranakichamber.co.nz

In their 20th year of owning Dalgleish Diamonds, Lynnette Rowan and Bill Roy received the best birthday present of all – being named the 2025 Supreme Winner at the Taranaki Top Shop Awards.

“It felt really good, and it still feels really good,” says Lynnette. “It feels like a confirmation of what we do.” “And that we’re doing the right things,” adds Bill.

The New Plymouth manufacturing jewellery store also won the Specialty Store Award and was named the North Taranaki Regional Winner.

The husband-and-wife owners say those wins come down to their people. “It’s about the staff; the people that we’ve got on board. They’re fantastic at knowing and looking after the people that walk through our door,” says Lynnette, of the sevenstrong team (five full-time, one part-time, one on parental leave).

The awards mean even more because they began with their customers. “Our clients have been really important in this whole process because, initially, that’s how you get nominated . . . so it’s really lovely that our clients have recognised us and wanted to nominate us as a worthy recipient.”

Lynnette says the whole evening was a positive celebration of the community. The store’s team were all there for the June 14 awards ceremony, organised by the Taranaki Chamber of Chamber.

“It was amazing, and the best feeling ever,” says retail star Bev Churchill, named Service Person of the Year in 2024. “Because we work hard, I think, we deserved it. Every year, that was our aim, to get it, and this year we did everything –I think we were all pretty happy.”

Retail assistant and admin Deb-Lyn Baylis agrees: “I was feeling pretty excited and I felt really proud of the team as a whole, just knowing how hard we’d worked.”

Second-year apprentice jeweller Josh Burger was also elated by the win. “It was nice to see that we were acknowledged. All our hard work was noticed by the people, which is really nice, I reckon. I was pretty excited when that (the supreme award) got announced.”

The award tops off a year looking back on two decades of running the Dalgleish store. The central city jeweller was first established in 1919, and Lynnette and Bill took it over in 2005 – look out for celebration surprises later this year.

“There are so many special stories,” says Lynnette. “But one that’s always incredibly special to me is remaking the wedding ring of a dear friend who passed away. It was made into three beautiful bands for his three beautiful daughters.” The bands were made into tubes, and small pieces of his hair inserted into each one. “So they’re wearing their dad with them every day. And what made it even more special was that they were in here and they helped. The four of them (his wife and daughters) were all here for the afternoon,” she says.

Bill is focused on making bespoke jewellery – working with customers on heartfelt pieces and also creating one-off designs inspired by the stones he sources from around the globe. One of the jeweller’s latest creations was a green garnet and diamond ring, which gained second-equal in the INSTORE Design Awards 2025 – Coloured Stone Over $5000. “That’s quite special for us to compete on the world market and get recognised,” he says.

Bill is also dedicated to sharing his knowledge – Josh is the fourth apprentice

jeweller he has trained. “So he is now able to use the title of Master Jeweller, which has also been a lovely recognition of what he’s done,” says Lynnette.

“It’s nice to retain the skills and be able to pass them on to the next generation, and to give back to the trade as well – it’s given me a lot,” says Bill. “I think that’s an important thing for whatever trade you’re in, to be able to pass those skills on.”

Bill and Lynnette believe the Top Shop Supreme award also reflects the way the store operates. “One part can’t happen without the others. We all take part in each and every sale,” she says. Windows into the workshop also enable customers to watch the manufacturing jewellers at work, including using a new laser cutter and engraver. “It’s about being open, about people knowing what’s happening with their work and being able to see it. So there’s complete transparency in the process.”

Judges of the Supreme award liked what they saw: “Classy shop front, engaging website, beautifully displayed jewellery and the service experience at Dalgleish is outstanding. We walked away with not just a smile, but a willingness to recommend them to everyone. We believe this is truly Taranaki’s Top Shop for 2025.” “We didn’t do anything different. We just kept doing what we do. We are who we are,” says Bill. Lynnette sums it up: “I just want to make sure that everybody who leaves here has left with a piece that feels special to them, and that they’ve had a special experience with a special place.”

(06) 759 8019

admin@dalgleishdiamonds.co.nz

FERTILISER FIRM MARNCO

has marked a major milestone with the arrival of its first vessel into Taranaki – a move that brings local farmers something they’ve long been seeking: genuine choice.

“Taranaki wasn’t in our immediate plans, but when we found the right warehouse –and, with the support of Arun Chaudhari, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, secured the necessary approvals – we seized the opportunity and made it happen,” says Marnco managing director Mark Been

The company began operating in Bell Block in March 2025, after receiving environmental approvals from New Plymouth District Council. It is the only site in New Zealand that Marnco runs entirely in-house.

“We take a lot of pride in it,” says Mark. “If that works, we can really look at running more warehouses ourselves.”

Three people work at the Taranaki site – Account Manager Craig Robinson, Warehouse Manager Paul Matthews, and Loader Jesse Malcolm. “Paul was born in Taranaki,” says Mark. “He was working with us in Tauranga but came down to make sure it works properly.”

National Sales Manager Nicola Frampton says the team is already building strong connections in the region. “Farmers are very interested to have another player in the mix that gives them opportunities they may not have with the incumbents,” she says. “I guess it’s also a little bit of a

step into the unknown for them. Craig’s done a great job of getting out there and talking to the farmers, and spring is upon us. We’re starting to have farmers come on board and open customer accounts as well.”

In its first 12 months in Aotearoa, Marnco sold 50,000 tonnes of fertiliser.

“My goal to the team is, hey, let’s get to half a million tonnes,” says Mark. “So we’re 10% of the way there in our first year, which is a fantastic result.”

Marnco aims to increase competition in a market dominated by two longstanding players. “Whereas prices often work in tandem, we’re offering price competition and price checking against the competition,” says Mark.

He compares it to supermarkets: “If you’ve got New World and Woolworths, we’re trying to offer a Pak’n Save model.”

The company runs a bulk supply model, offering 500kg, 1-tonne bags and bulk. Core products are urea, SOA (sulphate of ammonia), and Sulphos – a phosphate product used in hill country as an alternative to SSP.

Marnco sources fertiliser internationally, adjusting to market shifts and supply challenges. “It’s a global commodity susceptible to shocks,” says Mark. “We try to get freight efficiencies by purchasing from origins that are closer, but with phosphate, for example, China’s not exporting at the moment, so we’ve had to source elsewhere. We move with the market as well.”

Some fertiliser will come into New Zealand via ship to Port Taranaki, where it will be discharged into trucks and delivered to the Bell Block warehouse on Parakau Rd. Mark says this provides another efficient supply option for local farmers, with product arriving closer to where it’s needed.

Volatility in supply has been highlighted by Ballance Agri-Nutrients’ recent warning it may temporarily shut its Kapuni urea plant due to gas supply issues.

Its CEO Kelvin Wickham says they’ve secured alternative nitrogen supplies and a contingency shipment of 35,000 tonnes of urea.

Meanwhile, Marnco is committed to sustainability. It has a dedicated Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Manager and publishes an annual ESG report with actionable goals. “One of those is . . . whenever there’s a rain event in Taranaki, we’d look at the drains to see if there’s any phosphate or nitrogen in the drains around the warehouse,” says Mark. The company will also offer a coated nitrogen product to reduce volatilisation losses and are moving to support bag recovery scheme model in what it calls a “big bag market”.

Mark says Marnco’s culture is dynamic and inclusive. “We’re young. And if we’re not young in age, we’re young in spirit,” he says. “The industry needs participants to be dynamic, and we try to employ people in the region who understand and talk to the region.”

Although founded in Australia, Mark says Marnco is increasingly Kiwi. “We’re trying to dispel the Aussie-ness in the business,” he says. “We’ve got more Kiwis than Aussies now. So we actually are a Kiwi business.” He jokes that he’s a “hybrid”. “I’ve lived in Auckland for 10 years . . . I’ve got a Kiwi passport still.”

Nicola says their guiding value is simple: “Together, let’s grow.” Mark adds, “I want people that are proud of the company they work for, proud of their identity, that they’ve been able to create their own identity for it . . . It’s all about the customer and the value we can offer them, which they’ve been starved of.”

Contact Marnco 0800 627 626

Or Craig Robinson, Account Manager 027 222 0024

Craig.r@marnco.com

HAIR & BEAUTY

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WINNER

The Station Hair Company

HOME & FURNISHINGS

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY WINNER

Peta M Homeware & Gifts

HIGHLY COMMENDED Belhams Interiors

LIFESTYLE, LEISURE & HEALTH

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WINNER

The Floatation Sanctuary

HIGHLY COMMENDED Vivian Pharmacy

FOOD & BEVERAGE – EAT IN

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WINNER Elixir Café

HIGHLY COMMENDED The Bach on Surf Highway

FOOD & BEVERAGE – TAKE OUT

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WINNER The Unbaked Bakery

ACCESSIBILITY

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WINNER Tika Restaurant

HIGHLY COMMENDED Mane Street Hair

SPECIALTY STORE

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WINNER Dalgleish Diamonds

HIGHLY COMMENDED Central Taranaki Automotive

FASHION, FOOTWEAR & ACCESSORIES

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY BARA

BUSINESS & RETAIL ASSOCIATION

WINNER Barkers

HIGHLY COMMENDED Swanndri

SERVICE PERSON OF THE YEAR

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WINNER Julia Kaur-Randhawa, Piccolo Morso

The bright-orange frontage of Central Taranaki Automotive is emblazoned with accolades – proof the Stratford business goes “above and beyond”.

Owner Kevan Old says a customer once looked at the wall of wins and told him, “That out there is not wallpaper, that’s for real.”

This year, the Stratford business was highly commended in the Specialty Store section of the Taranaki Top Shop Awards and named the Central Taranaki Regional Winner.

Since opening in 2012, Central Taranaki Automotive has won 13 Top Shop awards. “We strongly believe in our mission statement, so we will go above and beyond, and I think that’s the x-factor we have over our competitors,” says Kevan. “You might come in here for a light bulb replacement and you’ll get your car washed, plus a gift put in your vehicle. Now, you don’t get that anywhere else.”

Customers agree. The automative repair shop has earned a five-star Google rating from more than 430 reviews, plus a national customer excellence award from the Auto Super Shoppe group.

One review said: “Very kind and efficient service. I’m a traveller and needed somewhere along the way and they were quick to get me in and out . . . they were very friendly and explained well what was wrong. Highly recommend . . .” Another customer wrote: “The excellent customer service with how they were able to fit me in so quick for the repair I needed – they were beyond amazing and absolutely lovely people.”

Kevan says those reviews come from all over Taranaki and beyond. “We’re getting people, tourists, coming off the ferry from the South Island, booking to come to our workshop. If you Google automotive repair shop in Taranaki, we come up first.”

When he and wife Wendy took over the business, it was a one-man operation in a workshop half the size it is today. “Within two weeks Wendy came to work in the office. We immediately employed two more staff. Now there’s nine of us here,” he says.

They have had a total of six apprentices –three who have already completed their training, one who finished two weeks ago, and two who are in their first year. “That’s very important, because if you don’t look after the industry, we won’t have people coming through,” says Kevan. “Even if they’re struggling a bit, which they all do, we get a mentor to come in and assist them with their apprenticeship.”

As the staff have increased, so has their customer base. In 2019, Central Taranaki Automotive had 1014 customers on its database – now that number has grown to 3886.

The automotive centre is a family business. Their daughter Deanna handles parts ordering, administration, social media, branding and marketing, and nephew Gary is an A-grade mechanic in the workshop.

Along with being family focused, the couple are strongly community-minded and Kevan is dedicated to serving on the frontline. He has clocked up nearly 30 years as a volunteer with Fire and Emergency New Zealand in Stratford, spending 10 years as the Deputy Chief Officer. In June this year, he was appointed Chief Officer. “We often see people when things are not going well for them – at incidents that are not good. We do our best to achieve a positive outcome out

of each situation,” Kevan says. “I believe that in any situation, we turn out to each call with the aim of making a difference.”

Their community involvement extends far beyond emergency service. “We get behind the schools. We’ve just done 350 bags of lollies to give out for Play of the Day to the Stratford Primary School. We do some for Midhirst School, Toko School, and Ngaere School,” Wendy says.

They also support special children’s events, sponsor children with brain injuries to have a day out and get into the spirt of the seasons by decorating their workshop windows for Daffodil Day and Christmas.

Kevan and Wendy often help customers in hardship. “We regularly do jobs where we won’t charge anybody . . . because someone’s in a bad situation,” he says. “My parents brought me up to treat people the way you want to be treated.”

The level of care extends to keeping customers informed if a repair looks likely to go over the original quote. “We always get the customer in here and show them. We just don’t carry on and give you a big bill. I wouldn’t want someone to do it to me, so we don’t do it.”

From carburettors in the 1980s to hybrids today, they have watched the industry change. “Training is ongoing. Especially with the electronics, the later model vehicles, the EV and hybrids, with the high voltage.”

Future plans include expanding, but Kevan and Wendy are not ready to reveal details. In the meantime, there are more awards to win as Central Taranaki Automotive continues its mission to go “above and beyond”.

(06) 765 7170

centraltarauto@xtra.co.nz

EVENTS & ADVOCACY

CHAMBER BUSINESS SHOWCASE

Our annual Business Showcase was held at the Plymouth International on Wednesday 13 August. Feedback from our exhibitors was very positive with a high level of engagement reported with the 300+ attendees.

TSB BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Judging is underway for the 2025 entrants. Tickets to attend the Gala Awards Evening on Saturday 8 November will go on sale from Monday 29 September.

WELLBEING CONFERENCE

There are still a few tickets left so don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to hear from outstanding keynote speakers covering various aspects of wellbeing. There will be plenty of opportunity for questions from attendees, along with expo stands from wellbeing providers. This full day event is on Thursday 25 September at the Devon Hotel. For more information and to register go to the Chamber website.

LET’S TALK TIKANGA

Reo Kōrero, in collaboration with the Chamber and He Toronga Pakihi ki Taranaki, is running a six-part monthly series designed to deepen your understanding and practice of tikanga Māori in business. Starting on 15 September, these two-hour sessions can be attended in person or online, they are designed with businesses in mind and are led by Dr Ruakere Hond, one of Aotearoa’s most respected voices in te ao Māori. For more information please visit the Chamber website.

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

These monthly events are more popular than ever! Held on the first Tuesday of most months, these networking events are an ideal opportunity for you to promote your business and showcase your operations, facilities, staff, products and services and to meet potential customers. It is the perfect platform to strengthen and grow business contacts and interact with the Chamber network.

July’s Business Connections was hosted by TGM and The Promo Room, followed by India Today in August and we have just had our September event hosted by NP Event Venues at Stadium Taranaki. Coming up in October will be Graphix, followed by Millennium Waterfront Hotel in November. In December, Christmas Business Connections at Chamber House for Roderique Hope Trust, is being supported by Stephanie Murray Mortgages.

Jo Whyte Event Manager

PARTNERED BY BARA

ADVOCACY

We continue to advocate for our members on both local and national levels.

In August we organised a meeting with the Ministerial Advisory Group on Victims of Retail Crime. Local businesses, mainly from the retail sector provided valuable insights into the challenges they are facing and the practical solutions they are seeking. Insights from this meeting will be used by the Advisory Group to shape recommendations that reflect on-the-ground realities and contribute to more effective policy outcomes.

It’s Local Body Election time so in late August we ran a Meet the Candidates session. This was an opportunity to hear from those standing as a Councillor for NPDC. With 46 candidates standing in the various wards, we wanted to know what their priorities were. The candidates were also asked business focused questions that were pre-submitted by our members. Voting is open from 9 September to 11 October.

We have two columns in the Taranaki Daily News each month – Chamber Chat and Business Voice. If you have an issue that concerns you and your business, we want to hear from you. Just contact Michelle or email admin@taranakichamber.co.nz and put Business Voice in the subject line.

WE WELCOME OUR NEW BARA MEMBERS

Shirley’s Lawn Mowing, Inspec Energy NZ, Coastal Five, Beta Climbing Gym, The Unbaked Bakery, Early Settler, Stratford Knit & Sew, Bizeco - Thanks for your support!

BECOME A BARA MEMBER

We have a special membership rate for existing Chamber members with 1-5 staff. For just an additional $35.00+GST you can be a member of BARA as well and you don’t have to be based in the CBD! For businesses with six or more staff, BARA membership is only an additional $150.00+GST.

If you are passionate about the city you live in and have a genuine interest in supporting local business, then we want you to be part of an organisation that has the same philosophy, passion and drive. By working together we can make a difference.

Please contact Michelle or Rebecca to discuss BARA membership.

Follow BARA on – New Plymouth CBD Alive

Michelle Brennan Advocacy & Communications Manager

At Nice Hotel, love is at the heart of everything we do. Terry Parkes, our licensed marriage celebrant, is dedicated to making your special day truly unforgettable.

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Wedding packages for any budget, begin your happily every after surrounded by natural beauty & romance

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71 Brougham St, New Plymouth (o6) 758 6423 info@nicehotel.co.nz

In one corner of Brandlab’s New Plymouth workshop, a tradies ute is being wrapped. Nearby, an embroidery machine hums through a run of hoodies while the DTF printer produces a vibrant and a fresh batch of screen-printed shirts that are going into the tunnel dryer for curing. It’s all happening under one roof, signage, embroidery, screen printing and more, so clients can get their entire brand package sorted in one place.

Brandlab was formed in 2024 when Dylan and his wife, Rachel, brought together their three long standing specialist businesses, Signright, Top Stitch, and Screen Culture into one cohesive brand. “It just felt like the right time to unify them all under one roof and be Brandlab,” says Rachel, who handles accounts, payroll, and administration.

Their combined services mean they can take clients from the earliest stages of brand planning right through to the final installation which gives them a competitive advantage. “We offer everything from the start of your planning of your logo, to the logo design, to bringing your logo to life with exterior signage, vehicle signage, apparel, and promotional products,” says Rachel.

“We have the ability to streamline the process so we can ensure the quality across the brand. Each service is handled in-house to ensure consistency across every element of a client’s brand,” says

Dylan, managing director of the eightstrong team.

“If you’re having to go to a signwriter, an embroiderist, a screen printer . . . everyone’s approach is slightly different,” Dylan says. “But trying to keep that consistency across the board is key.”

“We’ve got such an awesome, knowledgeable team, who all work closely together. Without our dedicated staff, we wouldn’t be here. Their commitment is what allows us to deliver the quality service that our customers rely on,” says Rachel.

Brandlab’ s client base is diverse, covering Tradies, sports and community clubs, as well as small and large businesses across Taranaki.

Creating long-time customers has been a strategic focus for Brandlab, with some of their customers having been there from day one. “Initially, I’d do a sign for them. Now we’re doing all their signage and apparel,” Dylan says.

Collaboration is another strength. Brandlab often partners with branding and marketing agency Smokey Lemon, receiving brand guidelines and producing everything from uniforms to signage.

Brandlab have invested in the latest machinery and technology so they can deliver the best results for their customers. This allows responding quickly to a customer’s needs, completing projects more efficiently and maintaining

consistent quality across everything produced. Whether it’s a small order or a largescale job, the equipment helps provide reliable turnaround times and a great finished product, without compromise.

Brandlab based at 320 Devon St East is a fully equipped workshop and apparel showroom, that the couple transformed from four bare walls into a thriving hub.

“Everything in there has been purposefully built,” Dylan says.

Clients can walk in, see and feel the products, and talk through their ideas with the team. “Our aim is for people to walk through the door and know they’re in the right place,” says Rachel.

This year, the focus is on refining systems and maintaining the quality they’ve built their reputation on. “Over the years, we’ve always had something big happening. This year’s about just focusing on smoothing things out,” says Rachel.

For Dylan, the goal is simple. “If we can be established within the region with a good reputation and have our returning customers . . . that’s what matters,” he says. Rachel agrees. “I think that’s something I’m quite proud about.

Generally, when they come here, walk through the door, they’re here to stay.”

(06) 769 6460

info@thebrandlab.co.nz

The collaborative actions of partners, sponsors, employers, for purpose, schools, government agencies, and individuals help us to connect people and business through employment and training.

Chamber Hub has now relocated to Chamber House in Egmont Street. This gives the opportunity to have meaningful conversations with the team and Chamber members, enabling us to reach potential employers, and market our clients to find full-time employment. Clients are invited to attend our monthly Business Connections and Network of Trades events, and for our South Taranaki clients, the Bizlink Hāwera BA5. It gives clients the chance to network and introduce themselves to potential employers. The support shown to our clients at these events has been remarkable. We thank you for your ongoing support.

Each one of us may face financial, health challenges or redundancies. An important aspect of my role is to provide ongoing support, whether it is as a listening ear, or simply referring the client to a supporting agency.

Some of our success stories since June this year have included placements for Front of House staff, Childcare Educator, Teacher Aide, Manufacturing (Eltham and Bell Block), Human Resources Coordinator (Dunedin), Catering Assistant, Shutdown (Australia), Retail, Security Guard, Supervisor-Hydro Excavation/Non-Destructive Testing (Auckland). A noticeable factor here is that they backed themselves! Also, a continued, focused effort or targeting those roles where they are strong candidates, has helped greatly.

We continue to reach out to our Chamber members by making employment introductions. Let’s keep the momentum going! For any business owners reading this, please consider sharing your job leads with us. Where we think someone is a suitable candidate for your vacancy, we will

make an introduction on their behalf. After all, we are here to sustain the jobseeker through what is not always a straightforward or quick process, and to connect people and business through employment and training.

melissa@taranakichamber.co.nz

Melissa Keith Placement Support Coordinator

Room For Local Trades To Support Healthcare

In November 2025, the Taranaki Cancer Centre will open its doors – a milestone that will transform cancer treatment in our region. For the first time, the majority of patients will receive their cancer treatment right here in Taranaki, including access to life-saving radiotherapy, eliminating the need for stressful and costly travel out of the region.

This game-changing facility has been made possible thanks to incredible community backing – with local businesses, including many Taranaki Chamber of Commerce members, leading the charge. Their generosity has already ensured the Cancer Centre will open with 10 fully updated chemotherapy chairs, providing comfort and dignity to patients during treatment.

Business support has also extended beyond equipment. Several businesses have sponsored specific rooms within the facility, helping create warm, functional spaces where whānau can be alongside their loved ones throughout their cancer journey. These investments mean the Taranaki Cancer Centre will not only deliver the best cancer care but will also provide a welcoming and supportive environment for patients and their families.

This is a truly local project – designed for our people, and built to benefit generations to come. It’s a shining example of how local businesses can make a tangible, lasting difference.

With the opening just a few weeks away, there are still many opportunities to get involved and be part of something

remarkable. Whether through direct sponsorship, fundraising initiatives, or workplace giving, your contribution will help us cross the finish line.

To learn more, visit thf.org.nz/cancer or contact Taranaki Health Foundation General Manager Grant Carter at grant@thf.org.nz. Together, we can ensure world-class cancer care is here for all Taranaki people – now and into the future.

A message from re/charge

It’s been a pleasure to support the Network of Trades events for 2024 and 2025. There are some fantastic trades businesses out there, and it’s an amazing thing to see everyone supporting each other through these tricky times. We are seeing great resilience amongst the trades community, and brighter times are absolutely on the way!

As well as our trades related accounting and advisory, we offer Men’s Wellness Retreats. These are a fantastic way to unwind, take a breather and just reset the mind and body over four days. There are some really helpful and practical activities, including knifemaking, hunting, gathering, meditation/yoga, breathwork, cooking and so much more.

We are always available for a chat, and the coffees are on us!

Phone Ben or Tess

Ben: 027 900 9064

Tess: 027 343 3003

Thanks to our hosts in July – GT Engineering, followed by HEL Rimu in August. Coming up shortly for September our hosts will be Fonterra Whareroa and then for October, TIS in Waiwhakaiho. On 11 November we will be in Hāwera at TIES, with our final Christmas Network of Trades on 25 November at OPS Plumbing & Pipeline.

Seabed Mining – A Transformative Opportunity for Taranaki and NZ

Alan J Eggers

Executive Chairman Trans-Tasman Resources Limited

Trans-Tasman Resources (TTR) will learn in March 2026 if it will receive the approvals needed to harvest the mineral rich iron sands off the coast of Taranaki. The company has been working hard for more than 12 years and invested more than $87 million to gain the consents needed, as it believes the project will be transformational. It will harness natural resources for the benefit of New Zealand, generate jobs and growth for people in the Taranaki Region and Whanganui District, manage any impacts to protect the environment, and be profitable for those that have stuck by and invested in TTR, including many Taranaki people.

An independent economic impact assessment by the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER) confirms our Taranaki VTM project, with a $1 billion capital investment, will deliver 1,125 jobs across the Taranaki Region and Whanganui District, spend $234 million annually across a range of local industries, and pay the government more than $190 million a year in taxes and royalties. Total annual export earnings of $854 million will make it one of New Zealand’s top 12 export earners.

The project proposes to extract up to 50 million tonnes of iron sands a year for 20 years from more than 22km off the coastline in the South Taranaki Bight (STB). 5 million tonnes of heavy mineral sands containing iron ore and the critical minerals vanadium

and titanium will be magnetically separated and recovered for export. The de-ored iron sands will be returned immediately to the seafloor in a controlled process to minimise the generation of suspended sediment in the water (a plume). There are no chemicals or toxins used in the process and the plume generated is localised.

To put it in context, the area is very exposed with high energy, turbid sea, subject to frequent disturbances from current, wave, tidal, storm events and flooded river inputs that generate high suspended sediment concentrations. This STB marine ecology is well adapted to high sediment concentrations.

TTR has invested millions to understand the marine environment and commissioned independent research, including an environmental impact assessment and seafloor video of the entire mine area. We can confidently say the 66km2 area is a black sand desert and one of the most well charted, documented and studied marine environments in New Zealand.

TTR has proposed a set of conditions and management plans to protect the marine environment, reefs, fish, kaimoana and marine mammals. These plans will establish procedures and protocols, in consultation with Department of Conservation, Taranaki Regional Council, fishing, oil & gas, local iwi

and the Environmental Protection Authority, to minimise the risk to marine reefs, flora and fauna, including whales and dolphins and ensure there are no adverse effects.

Maintaining our economic well-being while reducing our environmental impacts requires more mining, metals and critical minerals to transition to a low carbon economy. The strategic value of the iron ore, vanadium and titanium is huge. The project has the ability to place New Zealand at the forefront of the clean energy transition to meet domestic and international demand that ensures long-term economic stability and growth.

Led by experts in mining technology with decades of experience, our company is managed by New Zealanders and our parent company, ASX listed Manuka Resources Limited, has a majority of New Zealand directors. It is also a fact that more than 30% of our shareholders are Kiwis and we welcome more onto our register of owners.

An expert panel has been appointed to consider our Fast-track application and has until 18 March next year to make its decision. We are taking nothing for granted and expect a rigorous, but fair, process that allows the project to stand on its merits – including

safeguarding and protecting the marine environment.

This project has the potential to be a game changer for the region, providing local jobs and helping turbo charge the regional economy whilst making a significant contribution to the government’s aim to double minerals exports to $3 billion by 2035.

Alan J Eggers

alan.eggers@ttrl.co.nz

W: www.manukaresources.com.au

Integrated offshore mining and processing vessel

YOUNG ENTERPRISE SCHEME

We are now into Term Three of Young Enterprise and the students are working hard to sell, sell, sell! They have also been working on their Challenge Three –Promotion and Sales assignment, showing evidence of their progress over the last few months

It’s important to teach the students about getting in front of the customer face-toface and not just relying on online sales, so I organise market days for them to attend. We had 39 of our amazing YES teams set up at the Seaside Markets over July and August. This is always a fantastic opportunity for the teams to showcase their products to the Taranaki public in a fast-paced sales environment. The top four YES teams were invited to have a stand at the Chamber Business Showcase, which was another great chance for them to get more sales.

In July and August we also held two YES Business Challenges, one in New Plymouth and one in Hāwera. These events are run over three days for students in Years 10 & 11, and are essentially mini versions of our flagship year-long programme. At these events, students form ‘business teams’ where they work together through a facilitated ideation process to come up with a business idea. A massive thank you to our regional sponsor Downer for providing funding for these Business Challenges.

There is only one remaining challenge left for the students to complete – the Annual Review. I can tell already that the Regional Final on 15 October is going to be extremely close this year – we’ve got a lot of dedicated students that are putting in the work and are eager to win!

A programme like YES simply wouldn’t be possible without the backing of our incredible sponsors. Thank you to everyone who supports this initiative, especially our key funder Toi Foundation.

megan@taranakichamber.co.nz

We can manage your complete election including advertising, electoral roll maintenance, mail outs, candidates, email reminders, sms (txt) reminders, design and print your voting material plus deal with any electoral inquiries, announcing results and notifying candidates accordingly. With our internet voting (also known as online voting or e-voting), telephone and postal voting options, no election is too large, too complex, or too small for our experienced, independent elections management team.

Megan Lepper Taranaki Regional Coordinator

Hayman QS Ltd

Construction Cost Specialist

Rebecca Hayman has built her career on solid foundations – more than three decades in the industry and always following the advice of her mentor to

That principle has helped lead her to a major milestone, becoming a Registered Quantity Surveyor – the pinnacle of her profession. “I’ve belonged to my Institute for 20 years and you start out as a student member and you go through the graduates, probationary and members, and then if work hard you may get to be registered,” says Rebecca, who is the Taranaki representative for the NZ Institute of Quantity Surveyors.

Her path into quantity surveying was unplanned. After working for a prominent architect in Napier, she joined one of the city’s largest construction companies doing office work. Watching other women in the team handle QS tasks sparked her interest.

An opportunity with Mainzeal followed, and in 2005 she moved to New Plymouth as a QS trainee on the Pak’n Save build –learning fast, gaining experience and a husband. Neal was the head rigger for the crane, and the pair’s shared passion and knowledge of construction would later become the backbone of their business.

What’s kept her in the profession is the variety, problem-solving, and ability to save clients’ money, often behind the scenes. “Construction should be fun and exciting, not filled with unknowns

and tension,” she says. “We take care of people’s finances as if they were our own.”

That can mean breaking down costs to check they are fair. “I got a claim for $30,000 and I went back to them and asked them questions and sent them back some confirmation documents and I got a $50,000 credit for a client.”

For those unfamiliar with the profession, she explains: “All construction comes at a cost; the earlier we get involved in any project the better, some clients talk with us before their architect.”

That involvement can range from early sketches - where she is adept at reading architectural plan - through to the final details of contract clauses.

This accreditation enables Hayman QS to work with clients whose lenders require a Registered QS, expanding the ways they can support a project’s needs.

Hayman QS works for clients, architects, builders, and lenders – from large commercial developers and ministry works through to ma and pa builders.

“New Zealand lenders’ policies are more and more often requiring a Registered Quantity Surveyor be involved, to protect their investment and ensuring the budget is maintained to suit,” she says. Offering that service locally means clients no longer have to bring in consultants from Hamilton, Palmerston North or further.

For 13 years, Hayman QS has provided independent quantity surveying services to the Taranaki region and Rebecca and Neal remain committed to ongoing professional development while delivering cost-effective solutions.

Projects range from small residential builds to large commercial jobs, including a current $14 million warehouse in Whanganui. Their own home at Egmont Village has been a test case for cost-saving

ideas. “We bought all our own materials prior to building our home,” says Neal, whose background is in construction.

“That enabled us to keep the on-costs low, which was a huge cost-saving for us.”

Clients can also save by making informed choices on finishes. “If you choose a carpet that is $75 a square metre, as opposed to one that is $45 a square metre, by the time you carpet your whole house, it adds up,” says Rebecca.

Hayman QS helps clients find alternative products that offer the same look or performance at a lower cost. “If somebody had said, you have to clad that in Western red cedar if you want that look, I’d say no, you don’t. You buy New Zealand redwood and it looks exactly the same for a fraction of the cost.” They call it “value engineering” – “changing products without changing the whole design of the build.”

“You never stop learning,” she says. “Products are changing, but also the architects’ and engineers’ ways in which to use the new products as well.”

That might mean investigating materials such as SaveBOARD, “100% recycled plastic… fire retardant and seismically sound,” or recommending cost-effective accessibility solutions like rubber matting instead of expensive concrete ramps.

Hayman QS’s message to the business community is simple – involve them from the start. “Getting us involved at the earliest possible stage in your construction journey is where you’re going to get the best outcome,” says Rebecca. She was chuffed with a comment shared after a Taranaki Chamber of Commerce newsletter celebrated her registration: “It’s an asset to the region to have such a skill set available to us locally.”

“I’m not better than anyone else. I’m just a QS like other QSs, but I’m here to help locals save their money because it’s so hard to come by and you need to hang on to it,” she says. “Integrity is about doing the right thing when no one’s watching.”

Rebecca: 027 471 3421

rebecca@haymanqs.co.nz

Neal: 027 918 5461

neal@haymanqs.co.nz

FOR PURPOSE PARTNERSHIP

The flow and reciprocation of goodwill and support created through generous giving purpose-led business.

Agile Leadership in Times of Change was the topic of the Circulate event held at the Plymouth International in July. Over 60 representatives from our hardworking community/for purpose sector gathered to hear about how to be prepared and ahead of what we know is inevitable – change? Michelle RamageRoderique Hope Trust, Charlie Nicholls – MediaWorks and Viv Edwards - Toi Foundation were our able presenters on this topic.

Michelle is aware of the impact they have in the community they serve, with an in-depth understanding of the necessity of agile leadership. She says, “this isn’t an option, it is essential.”

Key aspects she attributes to creating growth and strengthening an organisation are staying close to the purpose, to people and partnerships. When change comes it’s important to remain anchored to purpose, but you can be flexible in how work is delivered. However, you must always stay firm on your why.

In this way with purpose as the anchor, change becomes meaningful and adds to the growth of an organisation.

A resounding necessity echoed by all the speakers is collaboration and partnership. Drawing from the wisdom found in an African proverb ‘if you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together’, stresses how partnerships and relationships are key. When times get tough it’s not just planning and clarity that keeps things afloat, but it is partnerships and relationships with others who are already connected and invested in your purpose, and your why.

Michelle summed this up with:

Purpose gives us clarity

• People give us strength

• Planning gives us confidence

• Relationships give us stability and connection when things are uncertain

This work only moves forward when we move together

While the presentations dovetailed, Charlie Nicholls, GM at MediaWorks, also added a business lens. Challenging how to bring your team on the journey and how to do this better, she provided awareness of the ways people think, react to, and are affected by change. The most effective way to deal with change is to create it. See the opportunities and be change agents.

Viv Edwards who involved in child, youth and wellbeing at Toi Foundation, reminded us that change is necessary to remain relevant and efficient amid changing community needs. How can change serve to build resilience in an organisation?

Some suggestions she gave, were to know your impact, look ahead and see the future and the change you are making. Share success but reach out for support when needed. Continue to be visible, do people know what you do?

To be ahead of change and demonstrate agile leadership, the challenge for us all is to reflect on what changes are needed to better serve our community. Connect with each other, share these challenges and ideas and collaborate and act, making bold changes that align with the evidence.

These gatherings are a great opportunity for community groups to not only hear from speakers but to share their own knowledge, experience and expertise, powerful contributors to the answers needed to go forward and be ahead of change.

If you are a For Purpose organisation and would like to hear more, please contact me.

maura@taranakichamber.co.nz

Age Concern Taranaki wants to change the way people view ageing by sharing a thoughtprovoking and life-affirming artwork by Paul Rangiwahia.

Executive Officer Richard Anderson says that to uncover “the gems” shared in the artwork, he and Paul went to the source. “So, we interviewed over 200 older people in our groups about what it looks like to live well.”

From those chats came 46 uplifting and meaningful statements used by Paul (Te Ātiāwa, Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Ruanui, and Tauranga Moana iwi) to create a bold, colourful work called Age is Just a Number. The Taranaki artist and wellbeing advocate has created a number of powerful pictures, including his well-known Mental Health W.O.F. poster.

are $30 with other larger canvas and decal options available, tea towels and other products are on the way for Christmas and Mothers Day. “We’d love to make some money from it because then we’ll stop asking every provider we can find, for money to run our programmes,” says Richard. “But the real result we want is people living like this. Celebrating.”

The artwork, launched in May, has no Age Concern branding, which was a deliberate choice so it could travel freely beyond the organisation, maybe even internationally. “Why wouldn’t that happen?” Richard says. “It’s uplifting.”

Richard hopes the artwork will transform the way all generations view ageing through its moving messages. Some of his favourites are: “Forgiveness will set you free.” “Focus on connections, not possessions.” “Joy is a choice.” “Sometimes all that is required is a good cry.” “If we live this, the world will be a better place – not just for older people, but for everyone,” Richard says.

Age Concern’s plan is to see the artwork in homes, doctors’ surgeries, retirement villages, and community spaces. Canvas wall hangings sell for $190, A4 fridge magnets

While the art is new, Age Concern Taranaki’s core work is well-established. Its four key roles are social connection, health promotion, a visiting service for those unable to leave home, and an elder abuse response service. Social connection ranges from coffee groups and monthly outings to men’s groups, choirs, and guest speakers, with many events held at Age Concern Taranaki's main office on Liardet Street in New Plymouth, their satellite office in Hawera and many other community halls and centres around the Maunga.

“Loneliness for your health is like smoking a packet of cigarettes a day – same impact,” says Richard, who spent almost 30 years as a school principal before taking on his current role.

Age Concern Taranaki also wants New Plymouth and Taranaki to be the best agefriendly city and province in the country. But to do that there needs to be a change of culture focusing on “intergenerational connection and respect”.

Richard and his team have plans for a big bold public show of support for those aims. On October 1, Age Concern Taranaki will host a march in New Plymouth to mark International Day of the Older Person. The team is aiming for 1000 people of all ages, dressed in bright colours, to show their support of New Zealand’s ageing population.

Health promotion includes aqua aerobics, steady-as-you-go classes, and talks on topics from fire safety to living on a pension. The visiting service is “Big Brothers and Big Sisters for older people”, matching volunteers with clients for weekly visits.

Four social workers are employed to work in the elder abuse response service, where figures are confronting. “Five years ago we had 86 cases in Taranaki. This year we closed 325. About one in 10 cases are reported, and

Placards will feature some of the 46 statements from Paul’s artwork. “It’s just about celebrating that we’re cool people,” Richard says. He hopes the event will catch on nationwide. “Let’s say next year every Age Concern in the country does it. There’s 34 of them. Imagine if in five years’ time there’s 100,000 people around the country celebrating ageing. That would change the culture.”

Taranaki’s October 1 celebration of ageing kicks off in the Huatoki Plaza, where people can meet and hear live music by Gumboot Tango from 10am, listen to speakers at 10.45am and join in a march around the

GRAPHIX TURNS 30

Celebrating Print, People, and Progress

This year, Graphix is proudly celebrating 30 years of helping Taranaki businesses bring their design, print and sign ideas to life — and you’re invited to the party!

Since 1995, when Shane and Sharon Devlin launched the business from their family living room, Graphix has grown into one of Taranaki’s most trusted brands. While the tools of the trade have changed dramatically, one thing hasn’t –the Devlins’ unwavering commitment to quality, integrity, and community.

Back when DVDs were the new thing, USB sticks were cutting-edge, and Internet Explorer 1.0 had just launched, Shane and Sharon were handcrafting a local print business built on personal service and creative passion. Fast forward 30 years, and Graphix is now a full-service powerhouse, equipped with the latest technology and an expert team — offering thousands of tailored solutions to clients throughout the region.

Even in today’s digital world, Shane says print is more powerful than ever.

“In this digital age, people are increasingly realising there’s no substitute for looking someone in the eye while discussing their project and handing over your business card,” says Shane. “The pendulum has swung so far that people

are checking their letterboxes again, while their inboxes are filling up, causing digital fatigue. Print gives you that lasting touchy-feely physical connection that’s hard to ignore.”

And it’s not just about nostalgia. Research shows printed material is more likely to be trusted, remembered, and acted upon. Whether it’s a beautifully crafted catalogue, a sharp flyer, or a standout sign, print builds credibility and leaves a tangible impression that screens can’t replicate.

The team at Graphix knows this better than most. From traditional offset printing to the latest in digital print technology, Shane has seen it all over his 42-year career — and he’s still just as passionate.

“What we can do now, thanks to the machinery, materials and software available, is nothing short of amazing,” he says. “And we’ve made it our mission to stay at the leading edge, bringing on board great equipment, talented people, and even other businesses to expand our capabilities.”

With Shane’s deep expertise, Sharon’s steady hand behind the scenes, and their children, Laura and Chris, now learning the ropes, Graphix is truly a family affair with a future-focused vision. As Laura and Chris prepare to step into bigger roles, the legacy of hard work and ethical business practices is in good hands. Integrity has always been a cornerstone. When Shane left his previous role at TNL Print to start Graphix, he vowed to never take a single client with him — even when they asked. He also made another promise: every job would meet his high standards, or it wouldn’t leave the shop.

“If a job’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well,” Shane says. “Our clients know the value we bring, whether it’s elevating a DIY design with expert studio time or delivering on our ‘Right first time and on time’ guarantee. We’re part of this community, and we take pride in every project.”

As Shane and Sharon reflect on the past three decades, they’re also looking ahead — excited about what the next 30 years of print might bring.

Here’s to print with impact, and a future that’s brighter (and bolder) than ever.

JOIN THE CELEBRATION!

Graphix is throwing a party to mark 30 years in business — and you’re invited!

In Conjunction with Taranaki Chamber of Commerce: Monday, October 7th 2025, 5.15 pm Graphix HQ, 254 Devon St West, New Plymouth.

Come and enjoy a Juno Gin cocktail, ales from Mikes and food from Barbara Olsen Henderson. Help us celebrate three decades of creativity, craftsmanship, and community. Whether you’re a longtime client or just curious about what we do, we’d love to see you there.

RSVP on the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce Events Page.

Sometimes you just have to take a Chance – which the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce has done to score the region its own Monopoly board.

And it’s paying off, with about 1,600 sets sold since the game launched in May.

The Taranaki edition has proved popular with investors, families and ex-locals, turning the classic board game into both a business win and a homesick cure.

CEO Arun Chaudhari says it is also a learning tool. “It helps in enhancing young people’s numeracy skills and financial literacy, you know, because you’re talking about buying and selling . . . then you’re adding up money,” he says.

to stay the same too. But there was still plenty of space to add local flavour.

The cash amounts on the Chance and Community Chest cards had to remain loyal to the original game. “But we could tailor them to Taranaki,” he says.

Taranaki businesses have had fun playing their part in the game. Even the Go To Jail cards have a positive spin.

Live magazine’s Chance card says: “You’ve been a little bit naughty and have to spend some time inside. Luckily, you’ve got your latest copy of Live Magazine to enjoy!”

The local edition swaps London streets for Taranaki landmarks, icons and businesses. Mayfair and Park Lane are Yarrows The Bakers and Millennium Hotel Waterfront and the train stations are transport companies, Port Taranaki, New Plymouth Airport, Symons Group and Mark Roads.

There are eight silver tokens, including the Wind Wand, a hei tiki representing Proof and Stock Coffee, and a ring in a box from Dalgleish Diamonds. The Community Chest and Chance cards are all sponsored by a Taranaki business or organisation.

Arun says Taranaki got on board after being inspired by the Southland Chamber, which launched its own game. “We thought, hey, this sounds like a pretty good idea . . . but obviously, we had to tailor the whole thing as per our requirements.”

The Chamber worked with Winning Moves Australia, Hasbro’s licensed agent, and signed a production contract with strict rules. “Some of the requirements were the places on the board, for example, the four corner spaces could not be tampered with. So, that’s Collect $200 when you pass Go, In Jail or Just Visiting, Free Parking and the Go to Jail squares,” he says.

“All the streets had to be the same colours as the original Monopoly streets,” says Arun. The price paid for each property had

The equivalent Community Chest card is backed by Nicci Goodin Designer Florist, and encourages the detained person to send flowers to loved ones to say they’re sorry.

“It’s all Taranaki-ised,” says Arun. “We had complete freedom to put any photos we wanted on the montage of the board.”

“So we tried to be as inclusive as possible between South, Central and North Taranaki,” says the Chamber’s Advocacy & Communications Manager Michelle Brennan. “We’ve got the Whangamōmona Hotel, the Hāwera Water Tower, the Stratford Clock Tower, the Wind Wand.”

The money also has a Taranaki touch.

The game has been well received. “By and large, people have been quite excited about it,” says Arun. “It’s something quirky. It’s quite unique, and it’s unlikely to happen again for another generation.”

Michelle says investors are already making the most of their involvement.

“Some of them are using sets as giveaways,” she says. “Some of them are giving them to their staff as Christmas gifts. Some of them are giving to customers. Some of them have bought a hundred.”

Even households have embraced the local flavour, including one family business.

“His boys, they want to land on the Chance space, so that they can get Dad’s card . . . so there’s just a whole lot of excitement in different ways,” says Arun.

Beyond the competition to climb the property ladder, the game serves a bigger purpose. “The greatest hope is for people to connect with Taranaki while having fun,” says Arun. “Board games have almost gone out of fashion. What better way for families and friends to get together and enjoy good time, and at the same time connect with the whenua you’re from, or you’ve been a part of.”

Michelle says they would also make great Christmas presents and now is a good time to send a Taranaki Monopoly set to friends or family overseas.

This absolutely Taranaki-centric game, which has a retail price of $69.99, with discounts for bulk buys is available through the Chamber of Commerce, the i-SITES at Stratford, Hāwera and New Plymouth, and online at taranakimonopoly.co.nz

People // Process // Performance

TAKING YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT STEP

Culture as a Competitive Advantage

What is the one factor that quietly drives long-term success?

Workplace culture is a powerful force that shapes how people show up to work every day. It influences whether staff go the extra mile, whether customers feel valued, and whether people choose to join, or leave, your business. In today’s market, culture isn’t just a “soft” concept. It’s a powerful competitive advantage.

Whether your business is large, or small – culture is especially important. You may not always compete with larger organisations on salary, but you can compete by creating a culture where people feel respected, supported, and proud to belong. A positive culture not only attracts great people – it keeps them.

Culture also drives performance. Teams that share a sense of purpose, trust, and accountability

consistently outperform those that don’t. When staff feel valued and aligned with the vision, they’re more innovative, collaborative, and committed to delivering results. That means fewer mistakes, lower turnover, and happier customers.

The good news? Building a highperforming culture doesn’t require massive budgets or complicated systems – it requires clarity, consistency, and connection. That’s where Implement can help.

Through leadership development and tailored workshops, Shona works to uncover what makes your culture unique and show leaders how to strengthen it. The result is more engaged teams, greater resilience, and a business that stands out from the competition.

If you’d like to explore how to make your workplace culture your greatest asset, let’s talk.

In-house Training

Book in your in-house training from October to boost your team’s skill and knowledge in:

• Leadership

• Employee engagement

• High performing teams

• Time Management

• Customer Service

Ready to strengthen your culture through confident leadership?

TRAINING

Working together to support and empower business

Is it time for you and your team to upskill? Then upskill with the Chamber through the wide range of workshops we have on offer. From time management to social media, AI to supporting working mothers, Excel to leadership, implementing action to public presentation, Xero to Te Tiriti o Waitangi – we currently have over 15 workshops on offer covering all these topics and more.

The demand for upskilling is ever apparent and by mid-2025 we have already seen 200+ people attend our workshops. Keep improving, offer your staff development opportunities and stay ahead of the game – please review our workshops and register today.

Three workshops to reflect on in this quarter demonstrate just that – the importance of keeping up with technology development, ensuring you meet the needs of your team and standing out in the crowd.

Writing Winning Tenders, delivered by Steve Martin from Height Project Management, gave attendees vantage tools of the trade, equipping them to present tender applications with the winning edge. Feedback included:

“Great course, Steve was a great instructor”.

“The methodology and takeaway templates and documents were most helpful”.

Amelie Moncel Coaching & Consulting is passionate about empowering working mums. If your company aims to be an employer of choice, then Amelie has the workshop for you. Feedback from Thriving as a Working Mum included:

“Very satisfied with the session, Amelie shared practical tools that I can use straight away. She created a warm and safe space to share”.

Utilising generative AI and chatbots is the way of the future in business. Many companies are already successfully using AI to carry out mundane tasks, allowing staff to focus on the core of productivity and efficiency. Bernard Pfister of Excel Training Taranaki is our AI Genius, having delivered several Introduction to AI workshops.

Now he’s developed a workshop that allows us to master AI in Microsoft Office applications – keep up with the times and register today.

“AI will not replace humans, but those who use AI will replace those who don’t.” – Ginni Rometty, Former CEO of IBM

Our range of training programmes is ever-growing, and new workshops are being added regularly. Take the opportunity to upskill locally. Please visit our website training page for full details on these upcoming workshops and more:

• BDO

o Xero Foundations

o Xero Intermediate

• Blanchard New Zealand

o Leading People Through Change

o Building Trust

o Blanchard® Management Essentials

• Social Media School

o Social Media Practical Tricks & Hacks

• Excel Training Taranaki, Microsoft Excel

o Basics/Intermediate

o Intermediate/Advanced

o Utilise the Power of AI with Microsoft 365

• Speaking Made Easy

o Speaking & Presenting with Confidence

• Trusted Advisor Network

o Time Management for Busy Business Owners

• Amelie Moncel Coaching & Consulting

o Thriving as a Working Mum

o Finding the Career You Love

• JC Consultancy

o The Cost of Not Implementing

• Maranga Tāngata Tiriti

o Te Tiriti o Waitangi 101

julia@taranakichamber.co.nz

Julia Collins Office Manager

MEMBERSHIP

Being part of the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce connects you to a supportive network and a wide range of opportunities — from networking events and training workshops to business resources and promotions.

Strong communities are built on strong connections. Each edition, we highlight some of our long-standing members who continue to contribute to the strength of our business community. Their ongoing involvement reflects a shared belief in the value of collaboration, support, and working towards a thriving region.

The following members have been supporting the Chamber for over 20 years:

Dialog Fitzroy, DX Mail, Education Services, Egmont Seafoods, First National Collective, Firth Industries, FNE Engineering, Gallagher Insurance, Govett Quilliam, Graham Harris, Graphix, Guthrie Bowron, Harcourts Taranaki, Implement, Janko Computers, Kingsway Menswear, La Nuova, Liquigas, McDonald Everest Insurance Brokers, MediaWorks, Methanex, Mitre 10 MEGA & St Aubyn St, Ministry of Social Development, New Plymouth Joinery, New World New Plymouth, Nice Hotel, New Plymouth District Council, NZME, Obertech Group, Office Furniture First

If it’s been a while since you explored all opportunities available, or if you’d like a

quick refresher, I’m always happy to help. Let’s make sure you’re getting the most out of your membership.

Feel free to reach out any time, I’m just a phone call or email away.

rebecca@taranakichamber.co.nz

PARTNERSHIP

It’s always a privilege to visit various businesses and learn what they do and the difference that they are making. Whether this is through their products or services, their research, employing people, there are always stories to tell.

These may be stories of the vision, perseverance, of doing the hard yards and taking the risk. However, one thing we know for sure is that it doesn’t come easily all the time, therefore it’s great to celebrate the wins where we can. These can often become, and certainly contribute to, the success of our region.

There are some great Taranaki stories amongst our partners.

We think of BTW, a company that started over 50 years ago and became a Chamber Key Regional Partner in 2018. At that time, they had one office in New Plymouth and now have expanded to offices also in Hamilton, Raglan, Taupō, and Taumarunui.

Now with 90 plus professional land and geospatial surveyors, civil and structural engineers, planners, UAV pilots, environmental scientists, and GIS experts, they have unparalleled experience on projects throughout the country. They lead the way with their multidisciplinary

approach with innovative and sustainable solutions for clients.

Marcels, started in 2000 and brought a passion for pancakes from Belgium to Taranaki. They are now found in supermarkets around the world. Since then, they have developed many more products and operate 24/7 due to high customer demand.

Pepper Construction is about to celebrate 90 years in 2026. A business that has spanned three generations certainly has many a story to tell, with no lack of experience of what it takes to build a business.

MAD Media is a hard-working team who also have expanded. Their billboards are now in Hamilton, Taupō, and Whanganui. They generously gift a $500 advertising voucher to a business and a For Purpose community group each month.

Learner Me is a technology training academy, bridging the gap between education and employment initiated from a need to find more qualified tech professionals. They have impacted and equipped the lives of many young people who now have jobs due to their pastoral care and training.

Congratulations also go to Shane and Sharon Devlin celebrating 30 years of business. Graphix was founded in their lounge in 1995. They have since then added to, developed and worked extremely hard to now be able to offer a broad range of services, a one-stop brand development shop. They also offer all Chamber members ‘10% extra’ in print materials as a special members offer. Some great stories and things to celebrate. The common denominator with them all is serious hard work, dedication and passion. At the Chamber we appreciate our partners and what they have added to our community and the way they continue to look for innovation and expansion, not just for themselves but for our region and those in it.

maura@taranakichamber.co.nz

Projects Manager

Rebecca Mende Membership Coordinator

Taranaki Business Review Magazine - Spring 2025