Taranaki Business Review Magazine - Spring 2024

TARANAKI Business Review SPRING 2024

FROM THE CEO Arun Chaudhari CEO

KIA ORA TE WH NAU! Welcome to the Spring Edition of the Taranaki Business Review Magazine.

Lowering of the Official Cash Rate after four and a half years might be a signal to indicate that inflation is heading back to manageable limits. If this continues, the likely implications are lower borrowing costs, increased business confidence and a gradual economic recovery.

Irrespective of economic indicators, natural calamities and world events, over which we have little control, there are many things we can do to influence positive outcomes for Taranaki and indeed for Aotearoa New Zealand.

One of the effective tools that we can control is developing and always maintaining a positive mindset. Advantages of a positive mindset are manifold. Below are some of the benefits: Clarity and Focus: A positive mindset helps business leaders to stay calm and focused, even under pressure. This clarity can lead to better strategic decisions.

Problem-Solving: With a positive outlook, challenges are seen as opportunities rather than obstacles. This encourages creative problem-solving and innovative thinking.

Handling Setbacks: A positive mindset fosters resilience, allowing business owners and employees to bounce back quickly from failures or setbacks.

Long-Term Vision: Positivity helps maintain a long-term perspective, which is crucial for weathering short-term difficulties.

Motivation: Leaders with a positive outlook can inspire and motivate their teams, leading to higher levels of engagement and productivity.

Work Environment: A positive work environment reduces stress and fosters collaboration, leading to a more cohesive and efficient team.

Brand Image: A business that exudes positivity often attracts and retains customers more effectively. Customers are drawn to businesses that are optimistic and solution-oriented.

Customer Service: Employees with a positive mindset are more likely to provide excellent customer service, improving customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Openness to Opportunities: A positive mindset often includes a growth mindset, where business leaders are more open to new

opportunities and willing to take calculated risks.

Networking: A positive attitude makes it easier to build and maintain strong relationships with partners, suppliers, and other stakeholders.

Conflict Resolution: Positivity aids in resolving conflicts amicably, ensuring smoother business operations.

Healthier Environment: A positive mindset reduces stress levels, leading to better mental and physical health for both leaders and employees. This contributes to higher productivity and lower absenteeism.

The link between mindset and business success is extremely strong.

Developing a positive mindset involves intentional practices that shift one’s thinking over time. Start by practicing gratitude daily, reframing negative thoughts, and surrounding yourself with positive influences. Engaging in mindfulness, setting and achieving small goals, and focusing on solutions rather than problems can also foster a more optimistic outlook for you and your business.

Thank you for your support of the Chamber.

Arohanui

WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS • • •

Alsco Uniforms BlueFloat Energy Bryce Hollands – Friend of the Chamber Dale Carnegie Training Hawkes Bay/Manawatu Datacom DK Roofing

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Edwards and Hardy Roofing Taranaki Everkind Frankley School Grounded Kiwi Hannah Elliot – Friend of the Chamber Harmony Business

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Hello the Window Cleaning Guys Humdingers Kiasma LINK Business Brokers Lumina Consulting McCurdy Trucks New Plymouth ITM Nohi

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PwC New Zealand Robinson Joseph – Friend of the Chamber Ruchika Sharma – Friend of the Chamber Subway Westown Taranaki Realty

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

MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR Rebecca Mende rebecca@taranakichamber.co.nz | 021 778 621

PARTNERSHIP & PROJECTS MANAGER Maura Young maura@taranakichamber.co.nz | 021 284 0062

ADMINISTRATOR Fran Bateman fran@taranakichamber.co.nz

ADVOCACY & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Michelle Brennan michelle@taranakichamber.co.nz | 021 710 950

YOUNG ENTERPRISE SCHEME COORDINATOR Megan Lepper megan@taranakichamber.co.nz | 027 586 6558

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

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

OFFICE MANAGER Julia Collins julia@taranakichamber.co.nz

PLACEMENT SUPPORT COORDINATOR Mary Sagen mary@taranakichamber.co.nz | 021 821 164

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Josh Borrell josh@taranakichamber.co.nz | 027 906 8789

ACCOUNTS Sandra Powell accounts@taranakichamber.co.nz

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TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS Chair – Daniel Fleming – King and Queen Hotel Suites Shane Devlin – Graphix Sam Tyson – Climate & Plumbing Andrew Pepper – Pepper Construction Priyaanka Khatri – Govett Quilliam Lawyers Grace Wesolowska – GW Consulting Ltd Rebecca Johnson – Centre City Julie Beck – Auld Brewer Mazengarb & McEwen James Cunningham – Novotel New Plymouth Jessica Parker – Taranaki Arts Festival Trust FEATURE WRITER Virginia Winder – Wētāwoman Writes Everything DESIGN & PRINT Graphix | www.graphix.co.nz TO ADVERTISE IN THIS MAGAZINE Contact: admin@taranakichamber.co.nz SPRING 2024

Transforming houses into homes When Belhams Interiors was announced as the Regional and then Supreme Winner at the Taranaki Top Shop 2024, owner Belinda Brown was stunned.

First up, she and her team were delighted to win the Home & Furnishings category sponsored by Razz Print & Design during the awards evening at the Devon Hotel in mid-June.

But there was more to come.

Belinda was floored when the New Plymouth interior design studio and showroom was named as the Centre Citysponsored Regional Winner.

She hadn’t even realised they had won until she saw the Belhams logo on the big screen. “To win that was just amazing, and the (Toi Foundation-sponsored) Supreme award was just unexpected.”

In her speech at the awards ceremony, Belinda thanked her staff and customers.

“I couldn’t do this without my fabulous team – past and present. Most importantly, we can’t do this without our customers.

They are our priority. We wouldn’t be here without you,” she says.

“We are very passionate about what we do, but we are particularly passionate about making your home your sanctuary because it makes people feel settled, calm, and happy to take on the world.”

Feedback from the Top Shop judges was just as effusive.

“What a gorgeous shop. Warm and welcoming with a great first impression.

Lovely décor and ambience and a helpful and attentive staff member. It is well laid out to display the different options available for home decorating. Stunning retail space with an excellent comprehensive website and good signage with a strong and captivating brand. An absolutely beautiful ambience and first-class experience. We could not fault this business. It is the epitome of all-round excellence.”

SPRING 2024

Belhams, a blend of Belinda and husband Hamish’s names, was established in 2004 when living overseas.

While in Malaysia, Belinda honed her design skills, helping expatriates adapt their home furnishings to new environments.

“Fun fact . . . it was put together with a family friend over a couple of boutique beers at a brewery in Perth,” she says.

“People would arrive with containers of furniture from their homes in Australia, New Zealand, or the UK, and struggle to make them fit in large, open-plan apartments with marble floors,” Belinda says. “I started helping friends and soon developed a knack for arranging spaces to make them feel cozy and functional.

Hamish, who works in the oil and gas industry, has been a steadfast supporter of Belinda’s entrepreneurial journey to transform a passion into a thriving business.

She’s had other help from family.

Adrienne Brown, Belinda’s sister-in-law, based in Christchurch, works full-time for Belhams.

“She works remotely then joins the team for several weeks at a time to contribute her expertise and support,” says Belinda.

The talented team includes Sarda’e PalmerCurd, who manages the showroom and ensures that customers receive excellent service. Jo Collins and Rachel Brooks handle staging and styling, creating beautiful and sellable homes with keen eyes for detail and aesthetics. And Brooke Gordon is the space planner.

“Apart from Adrienne and I, our team is all new as of February of this year. And it has been incredible the way that everybody has pulled together so quickly. It’s important to build a team based on complementary skills,” she says.

“Our approach is very personalised. We stage to the home, not the furniture. It’s about making spaces that people can truly live in and enjoy.”

Belinda’s journey into transforming homes began with precocious talent. “Interior design was always my hobby. I started decorating my family home when I was just 11 years old.”

Originally from Auckland, Belinda met Christchurch man Hamish in London and together they became globe trotters, living in Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia. They also have two teenage sons.

“When we moved to New Plymouth (in 2016), it was a lifestyle decision,” she says. “After years of working in IT as an accountant and business analyst, I decided to turn my lifelong passion for interior design into a full-time career.”

Belhams Interiors started humbly, operating from home and focusing on helping friends and family. However, as Belinda’s reputation grew, so did the demand for her services, leading to the opening of a physical store on Beach St Fitzroy, in 2019.

In August 2023, Belhams Interiors moved into its new high-ceiling home at 30 Liardet St. With help from Adrienne, Belinda transformed the former music and instrument shop into an enticing space of elegant beauty.

There’s still music.

Jazz swirls through the air, which is delicately perfumed with scented candles, and the entire store is furnished in a melody of earthy tones with subtle hints of colour.

“We want people to walk in and feel relaxed and to have an enjoyable experience with no pressure to purchase. We’re trying to provide inspiration for their home,” says Belinda.

Belhams Interiors has a simple but clear philosophy: “The goal is to make your house into your home.”

30 Liardet Street, New Plymouth belhams.co.nz

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Brand design for award-winning business.

Design Garage are proud to be a part of Belhams Interiors journey and congratulate them on winning the Top Shop Supreme Award.

We were overwhelmed with the judges feedback on the business saying “An excellent comprehensive website and good signage with a strong and captivating brand”. That was music to our ears!

We have looked after the Belhams brand, marketing and website for a number of years and built a strong relationship with Belinda and her team so to hear this feedback and see them recognised for their hard work was so rewarding for us. Congratulations Belhams – well deserved!

If you are looking to create a brand that shines we would love to work with you. contact@designgarage.co.nz

www.designgarage.co.nz

Ci rculate

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

SPEED NOT HASTE, PLANNING NOT PROCRASTINATION Organisations are continually faced with these dual dilemmas. We live in a world of constant, real-time communication about everything from across the world and as a consequence there is an expectation that everything happens instantaneously. This is not a helpful culture for organisations because haste rarely produces well planned and effective responses. Related to this growing need for speed is the fact that many organisations, especially in the not-for-profit sector, have small staff teams and many will have trimmed these further over the last few years with cost increases and funding scarcity. But these smaller teams haven’t aligned with reduced workloads so staff are expected to do more and more, and do it faster and faster.

a robust process for prioritisation and an appropriate approach to risk. No organisation can achieve everything it wants to because inevitably, resource and capacity won’t enable it to, but trying to rush through more and more to compensate will not be effective. Instead, potential actions need to be prioritised and well thought through. Equally, no amount of planning can predict outcomes with certainty, especially in the dynamic environment organisations now work in. At some point there needs to be an acceptance of risk (based on sound planning) and a commitment to do.

If your organisation is facing this situation reach out to Circulate through Maura.

She can connect you with people who can help you.

Article by Simon Cayley BAF (Bishops Action Foundation)

BUSINESS FOR GOOD – SHINING PEAK THE 5% PROJECT

Our Business for Good, Shining Peak Brewing, believes in businesses having a strong social mission at their core. As a business they themselves have certainly lived this commitment in their five years of business.

Conversely organisations can risk becoming locked in endless planning cycles which get in the way of actually doing things. The focus on strategic plans, annual plans, risk plans, impact strategies and so on can result in organisational outcomes being focused on developing the strategies and plans, not actually delivering on them within a culture of procrastination not delivery. The main sign of procrastination is delay. If you keep pushing back deadlines, seek unnecessary information, or revisit the planning stage repeatedly, you might be procrastinating.

The key to avoiding excessive haste or excessive procrastination lies in having SPRING 2024

Every month 5% of their beer revenue from their venue is donated to a different local Taranaki organisation. To their credit, this donation to a community group is not from their profit but from their revenue, which equates to approximately 30 to 50% of their profit.

To date they have helped over 50 local community organisations and given away more than 200K. This can only result in an ongoing impact in our community.

But what was it that gave these entrepreneurs the desire to give away?

For Dan Radcliffe, Jesse Sigurdsson and AJ they had experienced the value and benefit of philanthropic giving before they started Shining Peak, so it was an easy decision.

of courage, to step out as a new business with this value embedded into a business plan and to follow through when it isn’t always easy. Yet they have done this, and this value has been part of Shining Peak’s ‘thriving’ in this community. It has also created and continues to create and tell the story of a business that is becoming more and more acclaimed for more reasons than an upmarket venue and great beer.

Where there is an increasing value in social good, more and more people look to which business is fulfilling social good when they make choices about where to spend their money. It’s nice to know that while you are spending money a portion of that is doing good. It has a definite feel-good factor.

When I consider organisations like Operation Blue Santa, The Retreat Centre Trust, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Building Wellness Taranaki, to name only a few of hard-working community groups who have each been recipients of over 4K, you know there is a huge impact for our community.

We will have all heard the stories of lives changed and affected by these groups and maybe even experienced it firsthand.

How good it is then to see a sustainable initiative that increases support to these and many others.

It’s a two-way street as well though, because where the charities and organisations receive money and promotion by being the beneficiaries of the 5% Project, Shining Peak is also becoming well known as the place to ‘drink beer and do good’. This inspirational generosity should indeed be celebrated.

Maura Young Partnership & Projects Manager

maura@taranakichamber.co.nz

However, it certainly takes not only a strong commitment but also some kind TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

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EVENTS & ADVOCACY PARTNERED BY

B A R A BU S I N E S S & R ETAIL ASSOCIATION

ADVOCACY WELLBEING CONFERENCE

Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to hear from outstanding keynote speakers covering Mental, Physical & Nutritional, Financial, Technology and Workplace Wellbeing. There will also be plenty of opportunity for questions from attendees, along with expo stands from wellbeing providers. This full day event is on Thursday 26 September at the Devon Hotel. For more information and to register go to the Chamber website.

TSB BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Entries have closed and judging is now underway! This year we celebrate our 30th year, with the Gala Awards Evening to be held at the TSB Stadium on Saturday 9 November. Join us as we recognise and celebrate the fantastic businesses in our province. Tickets are on sale from Monday 30 September.

BUSINESS SHOWCASE

It was a great night at our Business Showcase at the Plymouth International in August. Over 70 exhibitors promoted their products and services to the 350+ attendees.

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. If you would like to host a Business Connections event in 2025, please get in touch.

In July our host was TGM Creative followed by One NZ in August and then Craigs Investment Partners in September. Coming up, our hosts are Taranaki Retreat in October, and for November – Headstone Warehouse. Our Christmas Business Connections at Chamber House will be hosted by Eat a Rainbow Foundation.

Jo Whyte Event Manager

jo@taranakichamber.co.nz

SPRING 2024

We continue to advocate for our members on both local and national levels. For many years we have been urging Council to review rating differentials. Even though rates have increased across the board from 1 July, there has been a reduction in what is paid by Commercial and Industrial properties versus Residential in the NPDC district. In the last couple of months we have also been involved with consultation on Rough Sleeping and Workplace Health & Safety reform. We have also partnered with the Taranaki Multi-Ethnic Council to establish an Ethnic Business Owners Forum.

We have two columns each month in the Taranaki Daily News Chamber Chat and Business Voice. We use these opportunities to highlight difficulties or problems that are affecting businesses, but also to recognise businesses and organisations that are contributing to our region. If you have an issue that concerns you and your business, please contact Michelle.

WE WELCOME OUR NEW BARA MEMBERS –

Subway Westown and Caci Clinic - 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

michelle@taranakichamber.co.nz

TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

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AWARD WINNERS

2024

TOI FOUNDATION SUPREME WINNER: Belhams Interiors

CENTRAL TARANAKI

SOUTH TARANAKI

REGIONAL WINNER

REGIONAL WINNER

REGIONAL WINNER

Remedy Health & Wellness Centre

Belhams Interiors

Mane Street Hair

WINNER

Proudly sponsored by

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NORTH TARANAKI

TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

WINNER

Proudly sponsored by

WINNER

Proudly sponsored by

SPRING 2024

HAIR & BEAUTY PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

FOOD & BEVERAGE – EAT IN

SPECIALTY STORE PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WINNER Mane Street Hair HIGHLY COMMENDED Elite Aesthetics & Lola Hair Studio

HOME & FURNISHINGS

WINNER The Coffee Club HIGHLY COMMENDED Sushi Ninja

WINNER Studio 18 HIGHLY COMMENDED Hungry Pet Fitzroy

FOOD & BEVERAGE – TAKE OUT

FASHION, FOOTWEAR & ACCESSORIES

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

B A R A BUS I N E S S & R ETAIL ASSOCIATION

WINNER Belhams Interiors

WINNER The Reef Coffee & Sushi Bar

HIGHLY COMMENDED Mee O Mi

HIGHLY COMMENDED The Baking Company

LIFESTYLE, LEISURE & HEALTH PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

ACCESSIBILITY PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WINNER Ma’dore HIGHLY COMMENDED Barkers

SERVICE PERSON OF THE YEAR PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

WINNER Hubfit HIGHLY COMMENDED Remedy Health & Wellness Centre & The GolfZone TARANAKI TOP SHOP IS PROUDLY PRESENTED BY:

WINNER Lola Hair Studio HIGHLY COMMENDED Mondo Travel Hawera EVENT PARTNERS:

WINNER Beverley Churchill, Dalgleish Diamonds

David MacLeod MP for New Plymouth 37 Gill Street, New Plymouth david.macleodmp@parliament.govt.nz (06) 759 2580 Office Hours: Mon - Thu 9am to 3pm Friday by appointment.

Authorised by D. MacLeod, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

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SPRING 2024

88 YEAR OLD FAMILY BUSINESS CONTINUES TO EVOLVE When you enter Pepper Construction in New Plymouth, take a moment to peruse the portrait of Len Pepper. He founded the company in 1936.

As you stand in the weatherboard headquarters on Ōmata Rd, imagine that this man had the foresight to offer his workers buy-in to inspire their loyalty.

Through 88 years, the company has weathered the highs and lows of New Zealand’s construction industry. It has evolved from a small start-up into a robust business that continues to shape the built landscape of Taranaki – and beyond.

The ever-evolving building firm is still in family hands. Grandson Andrew Pepper is now the director, and his wife Paula manages office operations and human resources.

Andrew recalls that his grandfather began his journey on a motorbike, travelling around the South Island. “He started building during the Depression, and it was really tough,” he says, recalling chats with Len. “He was from Dunedin and started building in Central Otago and Ida Valley, eventually moving up through South Canterbury, where he built Art Deco-designed houses that still stand today.”

Len’s travels took him to various parts of Aotearoa, from Timaru to Blenheim, and eventually to Taranaki. He started building in Waitara and also worked at the back of the Bowl of Brooklands before establishing 29 Ōmata Rd as the company’s nerve centre.

One of Len’s most innovative ideas was the concept of co-ops. “He would give the workers ownership of the business,” says Andrew. “It was a great way to ensure productivity and quality by having the workers have an actual stake in the game.”

This forward-thinking model set a precedent for business practices that would influence the company’s operations for decades.

After World War II, Pepper Construction expanded significantly, particularly in state housing. “They built hundreds of houses in Auckland and all over the place – SPRING 2024

predominantly state houses right up into the ‘70s,” says Andrew.

This period of growth was marked by a strong partnership with the Ministry of Works, which saw the company play a pivotal role in New Zealand’s housing boom.

As the company grew, so did the responsibilities of the Pepper family.

Andrew’s father, Graeme, who joined the business in the early ‘60s, helped the company work through complex civil engineering projects, including the development of the Whakawhiti area in Marfell.

“It was a swamp, and they had to come up with solutions to build roads and houses there,” says Andrew.

After about three decades, the boom years faded. In the 1980s, the housing market contracted, and the Government’s involvement in state housing waned. This prompted Pepper Construction to branch out.

“Dad changed the business into the commercial sector,” says Andrew. “He diversified into schools, local body, and civil works.”

When Andrew took over the business in 2013, he led a period of significant growth and modernisation. But before that, he started with the basics.

“When I came back from overseas in 1998, Dad threw me in the back room with a scale ruler and some plans and said, ‘just start measuring,’” he laughs. “It was a health and safety nightmare in here, but it was a great learning experience.”

Under Andrew’s leadership, Pepper Construction has grown from a small operation to an industry leading company that employs 24 people and 8 contractors.

He has also placed a strong emphasis on training and development.

“We’ve put at least 20 apprentices through over the last 10 years,” says Paula, who joined the business in January 2022. “We also went to the schools and got in on their Gateway schemes, giving a lot of young people a go.”

This commitment to professional development is not just about building skills but also about instilling a strong work ethic.

“Learning is earning,” says Andrew. “You get qualified and become more valuable, not just to yourself but in the work you do.”

Pepper Construction is also dedicated to supporting the community, particularly Life Education Taranaki, WISE Charitable Trust, Taranaki Futures, Marfell Community Trust, Devon Intermediate, Be Safe Taranaki and Building Wellness Taranaki.

Building on a foundation of 88 years, Pepper Construction is in a solid position. “It’s a highly productive little unit – adaptable and very diverse. We can flick in and out of most forms of construction. We can do commercial, residential, and industrial.”

Some of its latest projects include the pocket neighbourhood John Mana Way, Yarrow Stadium’s temporary facilities, and about 40 state houses in Wellington. The company has also learnt the importance of thinking agile and diversifying with a line of sheds, and asbestos removal.

As the company looks to the future, the legacy of Len Pepper’s pioneering spirit continues to guide its path.

However, it’s unlikely a Pepper will remain at the helm forever, as Andrew and Paula’s daughter Phoebe has other plans.

Therefore, succession from the outside has begun, with Craig Oliver, who has more than 30 years of business experience across multiple industries, now serving as the general manager.

In the meantime, Andrew’s advice for business and life is: “Just be good at what you’re doing. Don’t settle for second.”

Contact: (06) 753 6159 or craig@pepperconstruction.co.nz TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

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ABOUT WELLS HAS STAYING POWER _ AND SO DO ITS PEOPLE Established in 1984 as Wells Instrument and Electrical, offering electrical, instrumentation and automation installation, commissioning, and maintenance.

The company has evolved over 40 years into revenue metering and field services, with proven leadership in field service technology and innovation, gaining a huge depth of experience with contracts that range from modest to multimillion-dollar budgets.

Wells is also now known for meeting the unique and specialised needs of the energy sector, with their in-house engineering team that provide input on technology projects and developments across Wells.

Co-founder and Executive Director Graham Wells, the quiet force behind the company’s success, says the business has been involved in many significant projects over the years – more about those later.

“It’s not just about what we’ve done but how we’ve contributed to improving people’s lives and encouraging them to progress.

Many have stayed, while others have found their wings and gone on to fly elsewhere”.

The focus on people, has been a dedication to Health, Safety and Wellbeing as well as customer service, which has helped set Wells apart – and that’s a theme echoed by many in the company of 420 staff and 20 apprentices nationwide 12 TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

along with a number of sub-contractors.

While always modest, Graham is particularly proud of the opportunities Wells provides for personal and professional growth.

One example is a story about Eli Waikawa, who joined the company after facing significant personal challenges.

With the support and encouragement of Graham and his team, Eli went on to win the Engineering Taranaki Consortium’s Apprentice of the Year award – not just for being the best electrical apprentice but as the best engineering apprentice in the region.

and talented employees who share the company’s values.”

Justin Peterson, the CEO of Wells, also highlights the company’s strong focus on people along with its diverse operations, covering industrial, commercial, domestic and electricity markets.

“Our people are the heartbeat of our business, you know,” says Justin, explaining the crucial role the team plays in Wells’ success.

“Seeing people like Eli succeed is what it’s all about,” says Graham.

Steve Waite, who has been overseeing Wells’ financials for nearly 40 years, agrees.

He’s watched the company grow from a small operation into a nationwide leader, driven by values like integrity, professionalism, and a dedication to quality.

“Wells is committed to providing solutions, not just selling services,” says Steve, a chartered accountant at BDO. “This focus on genuine customer service has attracted and retained both clients

Taranaki Rugby Stadium Floodlights 1998.

SPRING 2024

Among these, is metering. “At the moment, it’s supporting a good portion of the business, which is especially important during times of economic downturn.”

Justin emphasises the importance of this diversification, and others, allows us to be sustainable during challenging times.

Innovative solutions are part of our ethos to support the company deliver services, always with health and safety in mind.

The most significant offering is Con-X, a mobile workflow tool that coordinates meter installations and field work for our electrical teams.

EV charger Installation and Charge Management.

“The rebuild of the light inside the Wind Wand was particularly rewarding,” he says.

Con-X assists the team to manage site safety, scheduling, client interaction, and customer service while ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

Leith has also ventured into the world of craft distilling, where he developed the control systems for Juno Gin’s distillery.

“We know, hand on heart, that we are giving our clients real time information to provide them with confidence that we are managing safety and quality to a high standard,” he says.

“These creative projects keep things interesting,” he says.

“It’s having those opportunities every now and again to let your creative skills go wild that makes the difference.”

When Metering services Planning and Performance Manager Craig Simpson started at Wells he was only going to stay six months.

Justin says that while other tools exist, none match the flexibility for defining work process along with integration of regulatory standards. Wells is now exploring the market potential of Con-X, both domestically and internationally.

That was 26 years ago.

Craig says the company’s culture and the opportunities on offer inspired him to remain.

The company is always looking for new opportunities, so it can pivot quickly in response to market needs.

“I was looking for a short term job before joining the police force, and I saw an advert for meter reading in the paper, so I thought, yeah, that sounds good. So, I took it, and not long after that, I got promoted to team leader for the region.”

That’s how and why it has entered the electric vehicle charging market.

“We don’t have a heavy governance board structure, this enables us the ability to move on things quickly where opportunities arise,” he says.

Innovation is a driving force for Leith Robertson, who has been with Wells since 1996.

As the Engineering Manager, Leith has been involved in a range of inventive and creative projects, from refurbishing Len Lye sculptures to developing underwater cameras for the South Taranaki Underwater Project.

Craig quickly moved up from a meter reader to a management role, thanks to the support and recognition he received.

“Graham and the business gave me opportunities I don’t think I would have gotten elsewhere,” he says. “There’s still a lot of variety and challenges, which keeps the work interesting.”

For Mark Benson, who has been with Wells for about 20 years, the company’s

Meter Reading at Wells in its infancy – 25 years ago.

openness to new ideas and technologies have inspired his long tenure.

He too started as a meter reader and worked his way up to become the National Operations Manager for Meter Reading.

Mark praises the company’s willingness to invest in its people and provide opportunities for professional development.

“It’s not always about the qualifications you have; it’s about showing initiative and doing the best you can,” says Mark.

“Wells recognises that and gives people opportunities to grow.”

Wells is also a company that supports communities – in Taranaki and beyond.

Graham Wells reflects on a couple of projects that have been highlights.

One was in 1998 when the company installed the initial floodlighting at New Plymouth’s Yarrow Stadium ready for the first Super Rugby night game in the province.

That effort won Wells the Electrical contracting Association National Safepower Supreme Excellence Award for its successful completion within an incredibly tight deadline.

One of the big projects Wells has been involved in over the past couple of years is the restoration project at Pan Pac Forest Products in Napier.

During Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023, the Whirinaki site of the pine products company was left submerged in flood waters, causing hundreds of millions in damage.

While Wells didn’t join the recovery operation until July that year, it played a crucial role in undertaking extensive electrical and instrumentation work to help bring the plant back to production.

Initially, the company was asked to supply 15 to 20 tradespeople, but due to Wells’ effective response and adaptability, this number quickly grew to 75, making Wells the largest electrical contractor on site.

“We were just part of those projects,” says Graham, always humble.

Contact 0800 4 WELLS SPRING 2024

TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

13

EVENTS CALENDAR 2024 For more information go to www.taranakichamber.co.nz

Rebecca Mende

Membership Coordinator

Taranaki Chamber of Commerce

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER Training – Social

+64 6 759 9080 | +64 21 778 621

rebecca@taranakichamber.co.nz Chamber House 42 Egmont Street PO Box 2, New Plymouth 4340 New Zealand

www.taranakichamber.co.nz

Global brand that offers connectivity and representation

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17 Media Photos on

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Business Connections – Taranaki Retreat

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Training – Blanchard Management Essentials

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Training – PEP

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Smartphone

Business Connections – Craigs Investment Partners

4 Training – Xero Foundations

5 Josh Borrell

Marketing & Communications Coordinator Taranaki Chamber of Commerce

+64 6 759 9080 | +64 27 906 8789

josh@taranakichamber.co.nz Chamber House 42 Egmont Street PO Box 2, New Plymouth 4340 New Zealand

www.taranakichamber.co.nz

Global brand that offers connectivity and representation

9

Events Manager

+64 6 759 9080 | +64 21 533 300

jo@taranakichamber.co.nz

Global brand that offers connectivity and representation

Melissa Keith

Placement Support Coordinator Taranaki Chamber of Commerce

+64 6 759 9080 | +64 21 225 4531

Training – Speaking & Presenting with Confidence

Training – Microsoft

Network of Trades – Leighs Construction/ Te Whatu Ora

Wellbeing Conference

Training – Introduction to AI

26 – The Devon Hotel

10 Chatbots for Business

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Training – Peak Coaching Customer Satisfaction

11 Training – Xero

15 Training – PEP Principles

15 Training – Speaking

16 & Presenting with Confidence

melissa@taranakichamber.co.nz Chamber Hub 10 Corbett Road, Bell Block PO Box 2, New Plymouth 4340 New Zealand

Confidence

10 Excel Dashboards

Chamber House 42 Egmont Street PO Box 2, New Plymouth 4340 New Zealand

www.taranakichamber.co.nz

Training – Speaking

Network of Trades – Recharge, Hāwera

Jo Whyte

Taranaki Chamber of Commerce

Lunchtime Seminar on Planning Your Legacy – Govett Quilliam, Taranaki Foundation & BDO

Training – Microsoft

16 Excel Basics/Intermediate

DECEMBER

www.taranakichamber.co.nz

Global brand that offers connectivity and representation

14 TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

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Business Connections – Eat a Rainbow Foundation

SPRING 2024

NOVEMBER

Mary Sagen

Placement Support Coordinator Taranaki Chamber of Commerce

Training – Xero 17 Intermediate

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Training – Te Tiriti O

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Business Connections – Headstone Warehouse

+64 6 759 9080 | +64 21 241 1062

mary@taranakichamber.co.nz Chamber Hub 10 Corbett Road, Bell Block PO Box 2, New Plymouth 4340 New Zealand

www.taranakichamber.co.nz

Global brand that offers connectivity and representation

21 Maura Young

Partnership & Projects Manager

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Training – Blanchard 23 Conversational Capacity Training – Xero

24 Intermediate 25

Training – Microsoft Excel Intermediate/ Advanced

Taranaki Chamber of Commerce

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TSB Taranaki Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards

+64 6 759 9080 | +64 21 284 0062

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maura@taranakichamber.co.nz Chamber House 42 Egmont Street PO Box 2, New Plymouth 4340 New Zealand

www.taranakichamber.co.nz

Global brand that offers connectivity and representation

25 Michelle Brennan

Advocacy & Communications Manager

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Network of Trades –

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26 Tool Hire Taranaki

Taranaki Chamber of Commerce

+64 6 759 9080 | +64 21 710 950

michelle@taranakichamber.co.nz

B A R A

Chamber House 42 Egmont Street PO Box 2, New Plymouth 4340 New Zealand

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11 LABOUR DAY –

27 Network of Trades –

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12 Elemental Group/Blue 28

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Training – Strategies

30 to Combat

Workplace Burnout YES Regional

31 Awards

BU S I N E S S & R ET A I L ASSOCIATION

www.taranakichamber.co.nz

Global brand that offers connectivity and representation

Float Energy

15 16

Julia Collins Office Manager

Taranaki Chamber of Commerce +64 6 759 9080 | +64 21 0228 8893

julia@taranakichamber.co.nz Chamber House 42 Egmont Street PO Box 2, New Plymouth 4340 New Zealand

www.taranakichamber.co.nz

Global brand that offers connectivity and representation

SPRING 2024

TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

15

YOUNG ENTERPRISE SCHEME

The focus for our Young Enterprise students last term was to complete their pitch. The teams had to know their business inside and out and exactly what problems they are solving with their product. We had an amazing turnout, with 34 YES teams from eight Taranaki Secondary schools, pitching their YES business to a panel of judges.

business idea. A massive thank you to our new sponsor Downer for supporting these BP Business Challenges.

As well as being judged on their presentation skills, the students were also critiqued on their level of innovation, production, marketing, sales and financial management. The top two teams from the pitch days were both from Stratford High School, BYou and Māiatanga – which is fantastic for the school’s first year doing the programme.

We are now into Term Three and the students are currently focused on getting their product to market and selling as much as possible. Students will then submit their evidence through Challenge Three – Promotion and Sales, which is due shortly.

We are also introducing a new YES event this year in October.

Rangatahi Business Sprint for Years 9 & 10 is designed to introduce rangatahi Māori to the world of business. At our final event in October, we will see who is crowned our winner of the YES Regional Awards!

We provided four market day opportunities for the teams to choose from, which included three different Seaside Markets dates and a Centre City Pop-Up Shop. The students enjoyed the experience getting out and about in the community and being in a face-to-face sales environment. Thank you to The Seaside Market and Centre City for providing the students with these amazing selling opportunities!

In August we ran two BP Business Challenges, one in New Plymouth and one in Hāwera. These events are run over three days for Taranaki students in Year 10 & 11 and are essentially mini versions of our flagship year-long programme. At this event, students form ‘business teams’ where they work together through a facilitated ideation process, to come up with a 16 TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

Megan Lepper Taranaki Regional Coordinator

megan@taranakichamber.co.nz

SPRING 2024

IF ANDRÉ NOBBS WAS A COMIC BOOK SUPERHERO, HIS NAME WOULD BE “ACTIONMAN”.

From biosecurity to legal leadership, André has spent his career tackling crises, transforming organisations, and building bridges between sectors.

Now, as the CEO of Govett Quilliam (GQ), a prestigious Taranaki law firm, he’s bringing that strategic level, action-packed ethos to the legal world, driving change with energy and dedication.

Sitting in a comfortable meeting room in the firm’s New Plymouth office, André reflects on the first couple of months since beginning at GQ on June 10.

“For me, my first order of business was to really connect with the partners around what they saw as their priorities across the firm and then to engage with all of the teams and individuals who make up GQ here, and in Inglewood and Stratford.” These constructive meetings enabled André to map workflow, accountabilities and the firm’s positioning in the competitive landscape of legal services.

In his leadership role, André stands by a straightforward philosophy – transparency and engagement.

André says that his engaged and consultative approach is to ensure everyone in the law firm is on board with systems and each person understands their contribution towards GQ’s success.

One of his early projects is the introduction of ActionStep, a new legal tech system designed to streamline client management processes.

André’s methodical approach comes from past roles, where deep understanding and clear communication were a must.

He spent 10 years in the military in Australia, and driven by a personal tragedy, he relocated to peaceful Norfolk Island to recover.

By 2007 he found himself entering politics and was elected to the Norfolk Island legislative Assembly, becoming the Chief SPRING 2024

Minister. That’s the head of state, equivalent to a prime minister or president.

He was re-elected in 2010, this time becoming Minister for Tourism, Industry and Development.

While on the assembly, André led the way for governance reforms on the island.

Back in his homeland of Aotearoa, André found himself working on back-to-back national health and biosecurity emergencies.

From 2017 to 2020, André was a key figure in New Zealand’s largest national biosecurity response programme, working to wipe out Mycoplasma bovis. This bacterial disease that can cause serious health conditions in cattle, including mastitis (udder infection), pneumonia, arthritis, and slow growth in calves.

“We designed systems to be part of that eradication programme,” he says of his time working for the Ministry for Primary Industries. “The multi-tiered action plan involved everything from software platforms to genome mapping processes.”

When Covid-19 arrived in 2020, he was poached. André moved from bovine biosecurity to helping humans as the national planning and programme manager within the Ministry of Health’s pandemic response team.

“The team from MPI had assisted (the Ministry of) Health by providing initial experience and insight into the contact tracing systems and the whole genome mapping, developed as part of the Mycoplasma bovis programme,” says André.

Both Government roles required extensive commuting from New Plymouth, where he and his wife, Kim, and family moved eight years ago. André would typically leave Taranaki at 4am on a Monday to drive to Wellington, where he would stay until Thursday evening, when he’d head for home.

Now, at GQ, André’s commute is just minutes, allowing him more time and energy to focus innovation and efficiency – and heart.

GQ is deeply invested in the Taranaki community, so André is mapping out the firm’s ecosystem of support for local initiatives.

“The footprint of that I haven’t finished drawing up yet because it is actually so big and complex,” he says.

Beyond the boardroom and the office, André is a man of many talents and community involvement.

One of his passions is music, which led him to perform alongside some big names in the industry.

“I wrote a lot of music and then that grew, and I ended up playing at most of the large festivals,” he says. “I played on tour with Jimmy Barnes years ago.”

These days, his involvement is as a member of the Taranaki Singer-Songwriters Development Trust, but the stage still beckons.

“That’s reinvigorated me around that whole writing music and performing music.”

André has also enjoyed coaching others and competing in athletics and martial arts, regularly competing in the Masters Games, where he’s won numerous medals and for nearly two decades André has practised martial arts, including Judo, Kenpo Karate, Arnis, and Shaolin Kung Fu – his favoured form.

Humble and happy in his own skin, André’s journey from the military to politics, biosecurity to national health, and now to the legal sector as CEO of GQ is another decisive step by a man of action.

CONTACT: (06) 768 3700 or email@gqlaw.nz TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

17

To achieve this we need to think about how we engage our people, as a first step, ponder this question: “What are you doing to help people bring their best self to work?”

We need to be able to adapt our style and approach to work for ourselves, our organisation and the people who work with us.

At the core, though, are the fundamentals of good and leadership, People // Process //management Performance N G YO R B U S I N E S S TO T H Eunchanged N E X T S Tfrom E P what they •TADoK Ithey feelUvalued? have self always been – take your Bringing your best to work • Are you helping them to grow When I work with leadership teams,management I often ask, role “What are be seriously, you to help anddoing develop in theirpeople job andbring as their best self to work?” It is a question that I think is pertinent whether we be arefair talking about consistent, and, most of staff engagement, bullying, diversity, or just good management people? and leadership. all, believe that you need to treat • Are they free from harassment people well in order for them to and bullying? bring their best selves to work.

People want to feel valued, they want to be able to finish their day with a sense of achievement and pride in a day well spent, to be able to have a sense that they are moving forward towards something bigger. Whatever else has been going on in workplaces, this hasn’t changed, people have always wanted that.

• Do they know how they contribute each day?

To achieve this we need to think about how we engage our people, as a first step, ponder this question: “What are you doing to help people bring their best self to work?”

• Do they feel valued?

• Are you helping them to grow and develop in their job and as people?

• Are they free from harassment and bullying?

• Do they know how they contribute each day?

• Are you helping them to get on with their work and achieve a good result?

• Are you touching base with each person regularly to check in with how they are feeling?

The important thing for managers and team leaders to remember is that things have changed in workplace dynamics.

We need to be able to adapt our style and approach to work for ourselves, our organisation and the people who work with us.

At the core, though, are the fundamentals of good management and leadership, unchanged from what they have always been – take your management role seriously, be consistent, be fair and, most of all, believe that you need to treat people well in order for them to bring their best selves to work.

• Funding may be available for eligible businesses through the Regional Business Partnership • Contact Shona if you are interested in exploring the offering.

Masterclass for Employers I am taking Expressions of Interest for the Masterclass for Employers.

• Ideal for small to medium businesses.

• Targeted for the senior team/ business owner who can develop and implement people strategies and policy.

• The goal over two days is to develop the beginnings of a people strategy to help to create the culture you need for engaged staff.

• Funding may be available for eligible businesses through the Regional Business Partnership • Contact Shona if you are interested in exploring the offering.

Get in touch – Shona Glentworth 06 769 9500 // 0274 536 928 // shona@implement.co.nz

implement.co.nz

Get in touch – Shona Glentworth 06 769 9500 // 0274 536 928 // shona@implement.co.nz

implement.co.nz

TRAINING

Ricoh Room

Transitioning to the final quarter of the year is the perfect time to reflect on change, progress and opportunities for development. There are still over 10 workshops to be delivered in our 2024 programme, and the range on offer could easily meet the upskill requirements for you, your business and team.

Digital Conference Suite

We are also fortunate to offer delivery of high quality national and international workshops right here in Taranaki. Often such workshops are otherwise only provided in the main centres. This is an opportunity for local organisations to attend, without the additional cost of transport and accommodation.

The Positioning to Win Tenders workshop, delivered by Height Project Management, is a perfect example of bringing an international workshop to Taranaki.

This course was a must attend for those in the business of tendering. An opportunity to increase knowledge of how to plan, manage, respond and write successful, winning tenders.

The Ricoh Room at Chamber House gives you access to a state of to the mix, and another the artNew communications hub in ainternational opportunity being offered locally is PEP Worldwide:NZ delivering PEP Principles. This self-contained conference room. world-class Personal Efficiency Programme teaches businesses, teams, and individuals to be more productive and less stressed.

When people work better, they live better.

For bookings or to view contact Along the same lines, and also new to admin@taranakichamber.co.nz our lineup, is Revive and Thrive: Practical Strategies to Combat Workplace Burnout, or delivered by Lumina Consulting. The workshop 06 759name 9080says it all; unlock the secret to sustaining high performance without sacrificing your health or well-being.

Social Media Power of Groups was delivered by Olena Williams Media, with

the grand finale of the series coming up: Social Media Photos on Smartphones.

Going above and beyond with service delivery, attendees are even offered a complimentary one-to-one consultation.

Don’t miss this opportunity – book today.

At the core of business operations is finance. Keeping it simple and seamless allows efficiency and more time for productivity. The BDO Xero workshops are here to make your accounting a breeze. Register to upskill for the Xero Foundations and Intermediate workshops.

Tools for employees – The Blanchard SELF Leadership workshop was well attended and well received. There are still two key Blanchard workshops in the 2024 programme, so take the opportunity to register with this world-class management training, consulting, and coaching provider today.

Happy customers is just the beginning.

Customer Satisfaction by Peak Coaching delivers the message; it costs far less to retain great customers than find new ones.

One down and one to go, the Speaking and Presenting with Confidence series is ready to give you the tools required to boost your confidence in public speaking.

Excel Training Taranaki never fails to deliver. If you have an Excel need in your team, these workshops are certain to meet that need. Ever-evolving to match progress, the Introduction to AI Chatbots for Business workshop is in the upcoming schedule.

The opportunities to upskill are plentiful, so please take the time to review our full training schedule to see what is on offer that would benefit your organisation and team. For full details on the following workshops, please visit our training page on the website.

• BDO, Accounting o Xero Foundations o Xero Intermediate

• Blanchard New Zealand, Leadership o Conversational Capacity © o Blanchard® Management Essentials

• Excel Training Taranaki, Microsoft Excel o Basics/Intermediate o Intermediate/Advanced o AI Chatbots for Business o Dashboards • Lumina Consulting o Combating Workplace Burnout • Maranga Tāngata Tiriti o Te Tiriti o Waitangi 101

• Olena Williams Media, Social Media o Photos on Smartphone • Peak Coaching, Business Mentoring o Customer Satisfaction

• PEP Worldwide:NZ, Personal Efficiency Programmes o PEP Principles

Te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi 101 delves into our history and culture, providing deeper understanding of the treaty and related issues.

Ricoh Room Ricoh

Digital Conference Suite Digital

WORKING TOGETHER TO UPSKILL AND EMPOWER BUSINESS.

Julia Collins Office Manager

julia@taranakichamber.co.nz

Room

Conference

Suite

Our Digital Conference Suite is available for hire. Facilities include a Touch-board SmartScreen, which enables presentations, video conferencing, electronic whiteboard, and laptop connection. All this and more is available at our convenient, central-city location.

The Ricoh Room at Chamber House The Ricoh Room at Chamber House gives you gives access to a state of you access to a state of the art communications hub in a communications hub in a the art self-contained conference room. self-contained conference room.

For bookings orFor to view contact bookings or to view contact admin@taranakichamber.co.nz admin@taranakichamber.co.nz or or 06 759 9080 06 759 9080

Enhancing mental health in Taranaki Taranaki Base Hospital’s new mental health facility is taking shape and will be ready in 2025. The Mental Health Rehabilitation Facility, also called Te Puna Wai Kātea, will be a place for the small number of patients who need an extra helping hand on their mental health journey.

Trades event. Or alternatively send an email to heather@thf. org.nz or grant@thf.org.nz They’d love to have a chat.

The facility will provide four short to medium-term stay bedrooms for patients to be based while they learn or re-learn the everyday skills needed to transition to independent living back in the community. With an activities room, whānau room and kitchen, dining and living areas, the facility will provide the additional care needed to reduce the likelihood of patient readmission.

As always, the Taranaki Health Foundation believes that Taranaki deserves the best, and so we are fundraising to enhance the Mental Health Rehabilitation Facility and provide an environment that helps improve the well-being of the patients and staff.

One key area we are fundraising for is the landscaping. A design for the landscaping has been created by a local WITT student.

Unfortunately, there is no dedicated funding for this part of the project. If we cannot find funding for the landscaping, the area will just be grass. Having a well-designed landscaping space improves the health and wellbeing of patients, staff, and visitors, so it is an incredibly important aspect of the facility that you can help make happen.

We also have room sponsorships available – with opportunities to sponsor the individual bedrooms, whānau rooms and activity spaces.

If you would like to know more and enhance mental health care in the region, speak to Heather or Grant at the next Network of

A message from re/charge We are really pleased to have linked up with Taranaki Health Foundation and the Chamber to support the Network of Trades events. We have a deep passion for helping trades business owners in all aspects of their business and we are getting some amazing results which we are really proud of. We would encourage any trades related business owner to get in touch as we would really appreciate the opportunity to sit down and have a chat about how we may be able to help!

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.

20 TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

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

Phone Ben 027 900 9064 or Tess 027 343 3003

Thanks to our hosts – Vizlink in July and Taranaki Pine in August. Coming up in September our hosts will be Re/charge, followed in October by Leighs Construction and Te Whatu Ora. On 12 November Elemental Group and Blue Float Energy will host in Hāwera, with the last Network of Trades on 26 November at Tool Hire Taranaki.

SPRING 2024

Celebrating When a back injury forced builder Daniel Lock off the tools, he and wife Charlotte decided to hire them out.

The result is Tool Hire Taranaki, a successful New Plymouth company built on resilience, repeat business and community spirit, which turns 10 in September.

Before that, he spent more than 10 years running his own successful company, Daniel Lock Builders.

But everything changed one morning when he injured his back. “It was a prolapsed disc, L4 and L5, and I had to have surgery,” he says.

He recovered, but a year later did it again and wasn’t able to return to the physically demanding work of a builder.

With four young children and Charlotte staying at home, the couple faced an uncertain future. But instead of giving in to despair, they saw an opportunity.

“Dan had always had a lot of tools, and his friends would borrow them in exchange for a box of beers. So, when we didn’t know what he was going to do for a future career, we decided to open a hire shop,” says Charlotte.

The Locks moved fast.

Within a month, they had a website, business cards, and a logo, and they’d found a small premises next to Snappers in Strandon.

On September 1, 2014, Tool Hire Taranaki opened its doors.

“We started with just Dan, me, and his 85-year-old dad who was working there.

And now we’ve got a staff of 14,” says Charlotte.

That includes a nephew and manager Carl Fox, who is also a builder.

SPRING 2024

The business quickly outgrew its first location, and within five months, they moved to a larger site in Fitzroy.

Their hire offerings also rapidly expanded.

“We started with one digger, and now we have over 20. The fleet of equipment has grown to more than 20 times the size we had when we opened,” says Daniel.

Now, they offer over 1,500 different tools and equipment, including scissor lifts, landscaping tools, and trailers. They also have a fleet of more than 125 trailered items.

Their client base is primarily made up of tradies, who account for about 80% of their business, with DIYers making up the remaining 20%.

The Locks have also expanded their business premises, buying two neighbouring properties to increase their footprint, one of which came with a billboard company, which they’ve named BSEEN Media.

They are now renovating the building that houses the billboard to create new offices, a showroom, and a staff room.

“We’re really excited about this renovation. We’ve been working in a very tiny office with very little space for the staff, so this is a big step for us,” says Charlotte.

While the business has grown, the Locks remain hands-on.

Daniel manages the day-to-day operations and is often the face customers see when they walk through the door, while Charlotte handles the background work, including social media and advertising.

“Dan’s on the floor, and I’m behind the scenes,” says Charlotte.

Their commitment to customer service has been a key factor in their success.

“We pride ourselves on having a really fast service to get people through and get what they need and out the door because time is money, especially on the job site,” says Daniel.

Years in Hire “Already today, someone’s nail gun had broken down, and they came to us. There it was, waiting for them to help their day out and get the job done,” he says.

Tool Hire Taranaki also offers a delivery service, making it easier for their clients to get the equipment they need, when they need it.

The Locks pride themselves in providing top quality trusted brands. “We have fantastic relationships with our suppliers who we are loyal to,” she says.

“We’ve had many of the same customers from the very beginning, for 10 years, and we truly value the support all of them have given us. Our customers come first.”

In 2016, the business won the Hire Excellence Award from the Hire Industry Association of New Zealand.

The Locks’ journey is one of turning challenges into opportunities – and making it a priority to support the community that supports them.

“We’re passionate about supporting our local community – schools, sports teams, events etc. We’ve been platinum sponsors of the New Plymouth Operatic Society for four years as well as being a major sponsor of the Steelformers Taranaki Airs,” says Charlotte.

“We have sponsored hundreds of organisations and events over the years.”

As they look to the future, with upgraded premises and their 10-year anniversary, the Locks are excited about the next chapter for Tool Hire Taranaki.

“When I was a builder, I thought that’s my journey for life,” says Daniel.

“I never thought there was another option.

And we’d never dreamed we’d be owning a hire shop, let alone having one for 10 years. But it just shows you, we really enjoy what we do, because 10 years has flown by very fast.”

Contact: 06 757 8665 or info@tht.co.nz TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

21

World of new work opportunities – learning made easy Digital Passport

Digital Skills: Level 1 Level 1

Free

Digital Skills: Level 2 Level 1

Free

Work and Income is all about helping people get a job – and the steps involved in that process.

But did you know it also promotes different ways to get new skills, experience or qualifications - for free. Lots of these are online, meaning people can do them at any time, whenever and wherever it suits them.

Adam Hubbard, Manager Regional Employment Services in Taranaki, is keen to get the message out to the business community.

Perhaps they’re an employer who believes employees might want to brush up on digital skills? Or maybe as a business they need employees to think about what next in terms of employment.

Digital Passport is one of those online options.

The intuitive and easy-to-use platform, launched about one year ago, is free for all New Zealanders to use. They don’t need to be on a benefit to register.

People can learn a range of digital competencies from basics like email through to the latest AI tools, as well as Job-Ready skills.

Call our Employer Line on 0800 778 008 to be connected with our regional team

Digital Skills: Level 3 Level 1

Free

These are in-demand and soft skills that modern employers and industries are looking for.

Early this year Digital Passport was named winner of the 2023 WSA Government and Citizen Engagement Award for helping achieve United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

To promote the online tool, Work and Income in Taranaki recently ran a campaign with clients on a benefit. The results were surprising and gratifying, says Adam.

“We experienced a significant increase of clients accessing our free online resources – and numbers continue to rise. On the very day we emailed people in May, 105 clients signed up and another 64 within the next six days.

“By the end of July, 395 local people were registered with Digital Passport.”

That’s a win for people looking to build their personal kete of digital knowledge and skills.

They learn, earn badges and then get to share them so others know what they’ve achieved.

Visit workandincome.govt.nz/employers to find out more.

Email our Taranaki work brokers | Mahi_Taranaki@msd.govt.nz

• Bite-sized modules • Learn online at your own pace & stop and start courses as you go • Use any device – a computer, laptop or phone • Free to anyone • Requires a stable internet connection • Complete one level and move onto the next • Earn badges and share to demonstrate proof of learning • Find out more www. digitalpassport.co.nz

Search for other courses ww.connected.govt.nz A central place for information from the New Zealand Government about employment, education and training. You can find help with study options, apprenticeships and training.

Careers.govt.nz Use careers.got.nz to find a course or training provider as well as advice about NCEA, qualifications and paying for study.

to help us gauge how our candidates are managing. It takes collaboration and supportive organisations to keep jobseekers focused and engaged and we appreciate our business members giving candidates opportunities. Please continue to connect with the Chamber Hub by making all vacancies available to us.

The collaborative actions of partners, sponsors, employers, not-for-profits, schools, government agencies, and individuals help us to connect people and business through employment and training.

It is a challenging time for some of our candidates due to restructuring, which is impacting them when moving forward into the workforce. When jobseekers feel disheartened naturally, it shows. We support them by uncovering and highlighting their extensive skills, knowledge and experiences they have gained throughout their working life. We remind them why they ‘rock’.

Our candidates over 60 years old who are seeking employment due to being made redundant or a downturn in the job market, might face the added barrier of ageism.

Our ability to treat them (and everyone else of course), with dignity and respect goes a long way. After all, they have a wealth of expertise and wisdom to pass on to their next potential employer.

There are many ways we successfully support candidates to find employment.

From consistent encouragement, sharing of leads, initiating employer introductions,

SPRING 2024

providing application support, interview preparation and more; we find those areas where we can add value and do it.

Recently, with the support from Chamber Hub and her family, an older jobseeker landed a fulltime role she desired. Another, aged 64, found meaningful work they love. And another aged 63, successfully transitioned from a career in compliance into residential activities coordination. What is the common thread? All three people have a positive attitude and showed resilience in the face of rejection. They just kept going.

After repeated rejection, it’s not always easy maintaining one’s well-being during job seeking, yet it’s crucial that we take measures to keep well. We are grateful for the guidance from our partners at MSD and other support providers like Building Wellness Taranaki, who share mental health resources with us. We forward this information and contacts for help to our candidates who need that extra care due to the pressures of life. This can come at any stage of their job seeking endeavour.

Melissa Keith Placement Support Coordinator

melissa@taranakichamber.co.nz

Mary Sagen Placement Support Coordinator

mary@taranakichamber.co.nz

Maintaining regular face-to-face or phone contact with our candidates is important

TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW 23

MEMBERSHIP In these challenging times, navigating the business landscape can be tough. The Taranaki Chamber of Commerce offers a supportive network that could be a gamechanger for local businesses. I hope, as a member, you are taking full advantage of the opportunities, resources, and connections available to help your business flourish. As the Membership Coordinator, I’m happy to chat with you to see what more we can do to support your success or to talk with businesses interested in hearing more.

If you know of a business that could benefit from our invaluable business community, encourage them to reach out. Plus, there’s an exciting bonus for new members who join between now and December 2024.Thanks to our Partner – Mediaworks, new members will receive a free three month advertising campaign on all six of their radio stations and a 45 minute marketing workshop.

For further information or questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. I am here to help.

Rebecca Mende Membership Coordinator

rebecca@taranakichamber.co.nz

PARTNERSHIP ACC – NEW PARTNERS We are pleased to welcome ACC as our latest Key Regional Partner. The category they sit under is Prevention, Care and Recovery Services.

For around 50 years, ACC has been helping Kiwis stay safe from injury, compensating those who are injured, and supporting them to recover and rehabilitate. ACC provides comprehensive, no fault personal injury cover and supports a variety of national and sector-led injury prevention programmes ACC and the Chamber will explore opportunities to help businesses prevent injuries in their workplaces and support the recovery of their injured employees. Workplaces that are healthy and safe are more productive, save money, and improve the quality of life of their people and communities.

GQ - LAWYERS We have always enjoyed informative and interesting co-hosted seminars that often collaborate with different partner’s and their expertise. The co-hosted seminar on ‘Wills and Succession Planning’ in

September includes Taranaki Foundation and BDO and covering topics from each.

These topics include the importance of having a will and avoiding common pitfalls, understanding the impact of leaving a charitable gift in your will, understanding the ownership of assets (e.g. business vs personal including trust assets), to list a few. Useful information undeniably we all need in planning a legacy.

Look out for another co-hosted seminar coming up in October. We will be cohosting with GQ and Simon Singh from Proformac on cyber security issues.

GREEN SCHOOL Green School welcomes Nigel Barrett as the new Head of School having returned to NZ after 25 years away. In that time, he worked in various schools across England, Kenya, Borneo, the Philippines, UAE, Uganda, and China. This global exposure provided him with a profound understanding of diverse cultural contexts and educational approaches.

In developing his educational philosophy, Nigel is of the belief that learning should be child centred, engaging, relevant,

and seamlessly connected to the world around us. We welcome Nigel to our community.

The Green School Open Day on 6 September, is an opportunity to have a look around, enjoy the beautiful grounds and architecture, meet their staff and students and hear more about their unique learning experiences.

This year we welcome three new and incredibly community minded CEOs who we are privileged as a community to have. Not only Nigel from the Green School, but we also welcome André Nobbs from GQ Lawyers, (see his profile in this edition) and Kerry Boielle from TSB.

Maura Young Partnership & Projects Manager

maura@taranakichamber.co.nz

NATIONA L PA RTNERS

24 TARANAKI BUSINESS REVIEW

SPRING 2024

C A T E G O R Y P A R T NE R S

C AT E G O R Y PA R T N E R S

BUSINESS EDUCATION & DEVELOPMENT

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE

BUSINESS SUPPORT SERVICES

PRINTERS

INFORMATION SERVICES

NETWORK OF TRADES

FOOD MANUFACTURING & EXPORT

FOOD MANUFACTURING & EXPORT

HOSPITALITY

HOSPITALITY

HEALTH & SAFETY AND MEDICAL TRAINING

NETWORK OF TRADES SUPPORTER

MORTGAGE BROKER

E VENTS

PEOPLE & CULTURE

LOW EMISSIONS FUEL

HOME HARDWARE & BUILDING SUPPLIES

LOW EMISSIONS FUEL

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

AUDIT, TAX & ADVISORY

ARCHITECTS

OFFSHORE WIND

MOTOR VEHICLE DEALER

TECHNOLOGY DEVLOPMENT & IT TRAINING

TECHNOLOGY DEVLOPMENT & IT TRAINING

PIPELINE & WELL SERVICES

PIPELINE & WELL SERVICES

CONSTRUCTION

PORT

COUNCIL NEW PLYMOUTH

IT SERVICES & SUPPORT

CONSTRUCTION

COUNCIL SOUTH TARANAKI

COUNCIL SOUTH TARANAKI

MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT

HEALTH, FUNDRAISING & NOT FOR PROFIT

INSTRUMENTATION, ELECTRICAL & AUTOMATION

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

SHE T METAL & ENGINE RING

CIRCULATE - FOR PURPOSE

COUNCIL NEW PLYMOUTH

REGIONAL GOVERNMENT

EDUCATION TO EMPLOYMENT

ENERGY IN THE COMMUNITY

SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION

PHOTOCOPIERS & BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

PHILANTHROPY

HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES

SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION

PHOTOCOPIERS & BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

HEALTH & SAFETY AND MEDICAL TRAINING

MORTGAGE BROKER

ACCOMMODATION, CONFERENCE & EVENT VENUE

LEGAL SERVICES

LEGAL SERVICES

REGIONAL AIRPORT

ACCOMMODATION, CONFERENCE & EVENT VENUE

REST HOME

KIWISAVER

REGIONAL AIRPORT

AUDIT, TAX & ADVISORY

PROPERTY INVESTMENT

PROPERTY INVESTMENT

DIGITAL MEDIA

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

LAND DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONALS

KIWISAVER

MULTI-PLATFORM MEDIA & NEWS

VOLUNTARY & COMMUNITY SECTOR

VOLUNTARY & COMMUNITY SECTOR

MOTOR VEHICLE DEALER

PORT

MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT

BARA KEY R E G IO NA L P A R T NE R SCIRCULATE NOT-FOR-PROFIT

ENERGY INNOVATION

ARCHITECTS

DIGITAL MEDIA

BARA

K E Y R E G I O N A L PA R T N E R S

PREVENTION, CARE & RECOVERY SERVICES

LAND DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONALS

COMMUNITY WELLBEING POWERING THE LION FOUNDATION COMMUNITY WELLBEING YOUNG ENTERPRISE SCHEME

EVENTS & PROGRAMMES

NETWORK OF TRADES

BUSINESS SUPPORT SERVICES

ENERGY INNOVATION

KEY REGIONAL SPONSOR WITT

EVENTS & PROGRAMMES

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE

ENERGY IN THE COMMUNITY

REGIONAL GOVERNMENT

HEALTHY HOMES INITIATIVES & RESOURCE RECOVERY

CONNECTIVITY, MOBILES & IOT

CONNECTIVITY, MOBILES & IOT

SOUND

BANKING

CHAMBER HUB CIRCULATE - FOR PURPOSE

Let’s do bette r busi ness, togethe r.

HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES

BANKING

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

EDUCATION

P A R T NE R S

HEALTHY HOMES INITIATIVES & RESOURCE RECOVERY SERVICES INFORMATION

Let’s do better business, together.

PRINTERS

MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT

SHEET METAL & ENGINEERING

M A R K E T I N G & M E D I A PA R T N E R S MULTI-PLATFORM MEDIA & NEWS

EVENTS

MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT

SOUND

INFORMATION SERVICES

PRINTERS

MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT

SHEET METAL & ENGINEERING

MULTI-PLATFORM MEDIA & NEWS

EVENTS

MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT

SOUND

N A T IO NA L P A R T NE R S