Taranaki Business Review Magazine - Winter 2024

Page 1


FROM THE CEO

KIA ORA TE WH NAU!

Welcome to the Winter Edition of the Taranaki Business Review Magazine.

The times they are a changing. And as they say, change is the only constant.

Whether it’s the climate, the time, or the business environment, everything changes.

At a recent business event in Taranaki, we heard from the heads of three wellestablished local businesses about their leadership in times of change. One company spoke about how their largest customer who provided 65% of its income, dropped to 3% in a single year. Another large business that until a few years did 90% of its work in Taranaki, now derives only 10% of its revenue from Taranaki. A great example of resilience. You will be able to relate to some of the Q & A captured below. The common threads in the answers are a critical lesson for us all to learn.

Q. During your time as a leader, what was the most significant time of change that you led your organisation through?

A. One answered the COVID years and the other two said “right now.”

WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS

• ABL Group

• Bach Break

• Biosecurity Taranaki

• Cafe Botannix Palmers

• Charred Downer

• Financial HQ

Flow Rehabilitation Ltd

• Global Metal Solutions

Q. What skills did you draw on to enable you to lead your team through change?

A. All spoke about being consistently positive and resilient

Here are some of the strategies they followed or suggest:

• Open, honest and timely communication, suited to the audience

• Rolling up one’s sleeves and working alongside the team as required

• Giving importance to their gut reaction and instinct

• Encouraging the team to challenge the norm and why things are done in a certain way

• Use outside reference groups for their opinion, when faced with a critical problem

• Stay abreast of employment law changes. Get professional advice

• Be a good listener

• Keep abreast of developments.

Grays Painting Contractors

• GT Engineering Ltd

Healthy Homes Taranaki

• House of Science i3 Limited

• Kerry Cameron – Friend of the Chamber

• Le Siam Thai Massage

• Learning World

Aotearoa is going through some big changes, in terms of energy supply, labour supply, infrastructure, primary industry sector and so on, just like the rest of the world. In our energy province, most Taranaki businesses have a better understanding of the Energy Trilemma, than those outside of it. The Energy Trilemma is defined as the need to find balance between energy reliability, affordability, and sustainability and its impact on everyday lives.

Understanding the challenges to balancing these three core elements is vital to keeping the lights on, the economy operating and achieving goals such as Net Zero carbon emissions.

Your Chamber is your business voice. Please do not hesitate to contact us to advocate on your behalf or to know more about matters like the Energy Trilemma.

Thank you for your support - Arohanui

Luke Gordon – Friend of the Chamber

Manchester Unity Friendly Society

• Nukuhau Carbon Ltd PEP Worldwide NZ

• Portacom Building Solutions Productivity People

• Proof & Stock

• QBims Solutions Ltd

TARANAKI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Robinson Building & Construction

Taranaki Kiwi Trust

• Taranaki Mountain Shuttle

Taranaki Singer Songwriters

• The ACFB Fund

UniMed

• Vertical Horizonz

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

Josh Borrell josh@taranakichamber.co.nz | 027 906 8789

MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR

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

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

PLACEMENT SUPPORT COORDINATOR

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

ACCOUNTS

Sandra Powell accounts@taranakichamber.co.nz

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

Taranaki’s Dynamic Duo:

The Mother-Daughter Team Behind Your Local Couriers

In the heart of Taranaki is a local courier service known for efficient deliveries and the unique bond shared by its owner and daughter. Irene Glynn, the owner of the Aramex Taranaki franchise, and her daughter Brigette Glynn, the business development manager, lead the Aramex Taranaki depot.

The duo, along with a team of 15, service the Taranaki region, including Hāwera and Ōpunake. Irene handles training, customer relations, and is hands-on in the vans, while Brigette runs the office, customer interactions, and sales. Their complementary skill sets have cultivated a yin and yang dynamic, allowing them to balance each other out and navigate the business effectively.

“We are very different in a lot of ways, but that can be helpful when we come together,” explains Irene. “We have the same vision but often have different thoughts on how to get there.”

Brigette adds, “Our mother-daughter dynamic enhances our problemsolving abilities. My mom is an incredibly hard worker who is great at compartmentalising, while I tend to be more level-headed, offering another point of view. Together, we make a great team.”

Sharing such a strong work ethic, the duo demonstrates the harmonious blend of family values and entrepreneurial spirit. Their ability to collaborate and communicate effectively has not only driven their business forward but has also created a warm and welcoming environment for their team and customers.

The nature of Irene and Brigette’s operation and their ability to cater to a diverse range of freight have enabled them to create a competitive edge within the courier industry in Taranaki. Their services allow small businesses operating out of their homes or large organisations with brick-and-mortar stores to have freight picked up from their doorstep and delivered across town, nationwide, or to countries around the world.

Aaron Prakash, a key account manager at Knight Group, commends the duo.

“Working with Aramex Taranaki has been a gamechanger for our business. Their professionalism and dedication ensure our shipments arrive on time.”

“Not only do they deliver on their promises, but they also maintain open lines of communication throughout the entire shipping process, keeping us informed every step of the way. Their proactive approach to problem-solving and commitment to customer satisfaction truly sets them apart in the industry.

“We’ve partnered with numerous freight companies in the past, but none have matched the level of service and reliability that Aramex Taranaki consistently delivers. We whole-heartedly recommend their services to anyone in need of top-notch freight solutions.”

In Brigette’s words, “Being a people person is essential for this job. We enjoy talking to people, and our couriers often become like family with our customers. It’s these personal connections that make our service stand out.”

With Irene’s quick thinking and Brigette’s organisational skills, Aramex Taranaki continues to thrive, offering a supportive work environment, and a commitment to reliable deliveries.

From interacting with small business owners to building relationships with customers, Irene, Brigette, and their team ensure every delivery is made with a smile.

Visit aramex.co.nz/tools/myfastway to create an online account.

Email: npl@aramex.co.nz

67E Breakwater Road, Moturoa, New Plymouth 4310

BOON - A creative and cultural evolution.

Over the last 50 years, New Plymouth design company BOON has evolved creatively and culturally by adopting new technology, diversifying to be multidisciplinary, and effectively changing the Taranaki landscape on the way.

Founder Terry Boon, former director Paul Goldsmith and current directors Murali Bhaskar and Glenn Brebner talk of the changes the team has faced and embraced since 1974.

That’s when Terry went out on his own and bought an old dairy on the corner of Gover and Courtenay Sts, which is still the studio premises today.

“It went from the little corner dairy and then we added the bigger building to the back of it with the high stud and open plan office.”

He says the move from smaller individual offices to a collaborative shared space has been good for staff camaraderie and teamwork. “If you need privacy, you go into one of the meeting rooms.”

The 86-year-old still has his own space at the office and, most days, pops in for a few hours to work on projects.

After many iterations of the architect firm’s name – ten years ago it was Boon Goldsmith Bhaskar Brebner Team

Architects – it’s now simply called BOON.

“I’m pretty chuffed about that,” says Terry.

Not only does the four-letter word have two “Os” that appear as eyes looking into the future, but according to the Oxford Dictionary, boon means advantage or blessing.

The firm has been a boon for New Plymouth, which Terry says has evolved reasonably sensibly on the architectural front with input from many “design thinkers”.

But there is one project he wishes hadn’t been quite so sensible.

To make a social comment about not pulling down heritage buildings, Boon and Goldsmith designed New Plymouth’s Clock tower on a lean.

However, the New Plymouth District Council opted for the safer, more classic version, which the firm is still proud of.

Other standout projects for Terry include redesigning the Bowl of Brooklands, transforming the old Regent Cinema “bug house” into the GovettBrewster Art Gallery and saving the New Plymouth Opera House (now TSB Showplace).

One of Paul Goldsmith’s most prominent projects is Puke Ariki.

The established architect decided Paul would work with him, so he tracked him down at Auckland University. When Terry elected to commence his own firm ‘Terry Boon Architect’, Paul remembers Terry saying: “I’m about to depart my

current business partners and you’re following me.” So, Paul did.

In the early days there were about six staff members. Now there are 24 with a balance of graduates, experienced designers and technical leaders, both men and women.

He’s also big on succession planning.

“The interesting thing about the business is there have always been 10 years difference in age between the directors,” says Paul, who is a decade younger than Terry. Murali is next and then Glenn.

“It’s a successful formula for longevity. It’s about successors, it’s about vitality. The success of the firm is all about people.”

Paul, now 76, resigned as a director at age 59 but remained on staff.

Now based in Wellington, he still contracts to BOON, working nationally for the Colonial Motor Company.

That engagement with Colonial Motor Company, sealed “on a handshake”, has been running for 40 years.

The firm has had a number of national clients, including Woolworths, fastfood chain McDonald’s, TSB Bank with branches throughout the country and several Local Authorities.

“Technology has allowed us to work across the country and even internationally. That’s a real evolution of the work,” he says.

Murali Bhaskar is a fan of embracing new technology and strives to be at the forefront of what’s new and helpful in project delivery.

“Technology has definitely been a huge influence in the way we’ve delivered solutions to the community,” he says.

BOON Studio - originally the corner-shop dairy.
Boon + Goldsmith’s clock tower on a lean concept.

“When I started, I was partly on the drawing board and partly on a very low-speed computer CAD program.”

Now, BOON is well into the realm of virtual reality and entering the realm of artificial intelligence.

“Technology with 3D visualisation software has made a huge difference to how we communicate design,” says Murali, who started with BOON in 1993.

Virtual Reality with BTW at Green School NZ.

Sitting in a meeting room, he points to virtual reality headsets. “So, you can pretty much put those on and walk through your future building.”

He’s also excited about the application of artificial intelligence in architecture.

“The architects who are willing to work with AI, will overtake the people who are not willing to work with AI,” he says.

But for Murali, people relationships will always be the most important at BOON.

In line with that has been a deeper cultural understanding of Te Ao Māori and stronger relationships with iwi around Taranaki Maunga – and other parts of Aotearoa.

Working with iwi and hapū on architectural projects is an area Glenn Brebner is passionate about.

He says that not so long ago, engagement with iwi on projects wasn’t managed that well.

“At some point, somebody would say, oh, I think we need a Māori design here… and the people involved, they would say, well, you’ve arrived a bit late,” says Glenn, who started with BOON in 2000.

“And they were right – it was too late, whereas now, all those conversations are happening at the very early stages. And that’s a major shift.”

BOON was engaged to design Ngāmotu House in central New Plymouth, a rebuild of the wharekai at Owae

Marae in Waitara, a masterplan with staged upgrades at Te Upoko o Te Whenua Marae in Tarata, Tu Tama Wahine relocation in Waitara, Kānihi Māwhitiwhiti Pā and Murihiku, a sustainable marae project in Southland.

“These projects are the highlights of my working career.” says Murali.

Glenn is the design lead for the planned Tūparikino Active Community Hub based at the TSB Stadium and racecourse site.

“The indoor recreation and sporting capacity has not grown at all in 30 years, yet the size and the needs of the community have grown significantly. So, it is going to be great to see,” he says.

“The community has certainly been backing it. So that’s a really key one. These projects require real courage to get on with them.”

“And that is something our community, clients, and contractors have in abundance. It is a willingness to do things differently, to be pro-active and innovative for the future.”

BOON | 50 good years celebration with the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce.

Where: TSB Lending hub

When: Wednesday 10th July, 5.30- 7pm

RSVP: required via Taranaki Chamber of Commerce events page

Ngāmotu House and the Clock Tower.

The Orangery Flambe Restaurant is à la carte dining at its finest Check Tripdavisor Top 10 Restaurants New Plymouth.

The Orangery Flambe Restaurant is à la carte dining at its finest. Check Tripdavisor Top 10 Restaurants New Plymouth

ngery Flambe Restaurant is carte dining at its finest. pdavisor Top 10 Restaurants

gery Flambe Restaurant is arte dining at its finest. davisor Top 10 Restaurants

angery Flambe Restaurant is a carte dining at its finest. ripdavisor Top 10 Restaurants New Plymouth

New Plymouth.

New Plymouth.

We specialise in Flambé, cooked at your table over a live flame. Celebrate your special occasion with us

We specialise in Flambé, cooked at your table over a live flame Celebrate your special occasion with us.

Pamper Package - $199

Pamper Package - $199

Pamper Package - $199

Pamper Package - $199

Pamper Package - $199

Pamper Package - $199

Bed & Breakfast with Prosecco on or upgrade to a Luxury Suite - $

Bed & Breakfast with Prosecco on arrival or upgrade to a Luxury Suite - $299

Bed & Breakfast with Prosecco on or upgrade to a Luxury Suite - $

Bed & Breakfast with Prosecco on arrival or upgrade to a Luxury Suite - $299

Bed & Breakfast with Prosecco on or upgrade to a Luxury Suite - $

Bed & Breakfast with Prosecco on or upgrade to a Luxury Suite - $

Subject to availability

Subject to availability

Subject to availability

Subject to availability

Subject to availability

Subject to availability

06 759 9128 | 0800 800 59

06 759 9128 | 0800 800 597

06 759 9128 | 0800 800 597

reservations@plymouth co n www.plymouth.co.nz

reservations@plymouth.co.nz

06 759 9128 | 0800 800 59 reservations@plymouth co n www.plymouth.co.nz

www plymouth co nz

www plymouth co nz

06 759 9128 | 0800 800 59 reservations@plymouth.co.n www plymouth co nz

reservations@plymouth co nz

06 759 9128 | 0800 800 59

reservations@plymouth co n www.plymouth.co.nz

220 Courtenay Street, New Plymou New Zealand

220 Courtenay Street, New Plymouth 4312 New Zealand

220 Courtenay Street, New Plymou New Zealand

220 Courtenay Street, New Plymouth 4312 New Zealand

220 Courtenay Street, New Plymou New Zealand

220 Courtenay Street, New Plymou New Zealand

We specialise in Flambé, at your table over a live flame e your special occasion with us

specialise in Flambé, your table over a live flame. your special occasion with us

gery Flambe Restaurant is arte dining at its finest davisor Top 10 Restaurants New Plymouth specialise in Flambé, your table over a live flame. our special occasion with us

specialise in Flambé, your table over a live flame. our special occasion with us

We are open for dinner Monday to Saturday from 6pm

We are open for dinner Monday to Saturday from 6pm

We are open for dinner day to Saturday from 6pm

e are open for dinner ay to Saturday from 6pm

Reservations Essential Phone 06 759 9128

Reservations Essential Phone 06 759 9128

Reservations Essential. Phone 06 759 9128

e are open for dinner ay to Saturday from 6pm servations Essential. Phone 06 759 9128

e are open for dinner ay to Saturday from 6pm

eservations Essential Phone 06 759 9128

servations Essential. Phone 06 759 9128

Brucei NZ
Brucei NZ

EVENTS & ADVOCACY

TARANAKI TOP SHOP AWARDS

Unfortunately due to print deadlines we are unable to announce our 2024 winners. Look out for our Winter edition for results and lots of photos from the awards evening. We gratefully acknowledge Toi Foundation and all our wonderful sponsors and event partners who support us, not just financially, but with encouragement and assistance to ensure we are able to recognise and celebrate service excellence in Taranaki.

BUSINESS SHOWCASE

Our annual Business Showcase will be at the Plymouth International on Wednesday 14 August. Exhibiting at the Showcase gives you the ideal opportunity to promote your products and services to 350+ attendees. To register as an Exhibitor or for more information please go to the Events page on our website.

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.

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 April our host was Taranaki Emergency Management Office followed by Office Furniture First in May and then Implement in June. Coming up, our hosts are TGM Creative in July, One NZ in August and for September - Craigs Investment Partners.

PARTNERED BY

BARA

ADVOCACY

We continue to advocate for our members on both local and national levels. In the last couple of months we have focused on submissions and deputations to Councils’ on their Long Term Plans.

Along with Chamber Chat in the Taranaki Daily News each month, we also run a Business Voice column fortnightly in the North Taranaki Midweek. 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 –Le Siam Thai Massage, Westpac, Charred, Humdingers Cakes, Bach Break - 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 michelle@taranakichamber.co.nz

Room for local trades to support healthcare

One thing that is clear from our conversations with people at the different Network of Trades events we’ve been to so far, is an incredible appetite from local businesses to support local causes.

The Taranaki Health Foundation is your local charity that enables the provision of enhancements to healthcare across the region. With the development of the New East Wing Building and the Taranaki Cancer Care Centre at Taranaki Base Hospital, there has never been a better time to invest in healthcare in the region.

One of the easiest ways businesses can support healthcare enhancements is through our Room to Dream initiative. There are many rooms across the New East Wing Building and Taranaki Cancer Centre that you can sponsor. By sponsoring a room, you will get an A4 plaque in the room to recognise your support.

You will also know that you have made a difference in one of the region’s biggest infrastructure projects, helped improve patient well-being and made the hospital a more comfortable space for whānau and support networks.

There are rooms available across all departments in the new development, including ED, ICU, Maternity & Neonatal and the Taranaki Cancer Centre. The cost of sponsoring a room ranges from $8,000 to $75,000, so there is something for every budget. And with payments able to be made in instalments over an agreed time period, plus the 33.33% tax credit you can claim, there is little reason not to be part of something incredible.

If you would like to know more, speak to Heather or Grant at the next Network of Trades event. Or alternatively send an email to heather@thf.org.nz or grant@thf.org.nz They’d love to have a chat.

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.

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 – Fowler Homes in April, Taranaki Offshore Partnership in May and Rivet in June. Coming up in July our hosts will be Vizlink , followed in August by Taranaki Pine.

Equip your team for a thriving workplace.

Equip your team for a thriving workplace.

Revel can provide your team with strategies to manage stress, build connections & boost confidence.

Revel can provide your team with strategies to manage stress, build connections & boost confidence.

Reimagine

Reimagine

Wellbeing

Wellbeing

Actionable strategies for stress & burnout

Actionable strategies for stress & burnout

Deeper connections for stronger teams

Deeper connections for stronger teams

Silence the inner critic for boosted confidence

Silence the inner critic for boosted confidence

Improved focus & presence for peak performance

Improved focus & presence for peak performance

Helping People

INTO HOMES

Elite businesswoman Stephanie Murray is passionate about fashion and finance, horse racing and hope, and making the mortgage process an easy lope.

But one of her biggest drivers is to support people into homes through charity and her business, Stephanie Murray Mortgages (SMM). “I began my banking career at 17, which was a long time ago now, and began lending at 21 years old.”

She started the mortgage advisory company in late 2015, flying solo for just one month and then swiftly expanding. Now, she has mortgage teams in New Plymouth, South Taranaki, Bay of Plenty, Coromandel, Wairarapa, Kāpiti, Hutt Valley, Wellington, Hawke’s Bay, Christchurch and Nelson.

“I wanted to be able to keep doing what I loved but offer customers ALL options by not restricting them to one bank, and I wanted to have a team of dynamic, professional and driven advisors to do it with,” she writes in a blog on the SMM website. “It was something that had been done before by many – but I wanted to do it BETTER.”

For her efforts, Stephanie has received an NZ Adviser Elite Women 2024 award recognising her as one of the best and most influential female mortgage leaders in New Zealand. NZ Adviser’s profile on her says: “Murray, specialising as a mortgage expert, takes pride in making the mortgage process stress-free and seamless. She offers personalised lending structures and pricing from a diverse range of lenders, ensuring the best fit for each client.” The mortgage broker and director has helped hundreds of clients reach their property dreams.

Another key area for Stephanie is supporting the Roderique Hope Trust, which is a local Taranaki housing charity. The trust provides a range of services for families in the community who are struggling with housing security. It provides transitional housing, the Sustaining Tenancies service and the Ready to Rent programme.

“At the moment our figure of money raised for Roderique Hope Trust, from 11 charity events is over $165,000,” she says.

The 12th charity event, called Noir Blanc, has just been announced. SMM’s annual three-course fundraiser will be held on September 21, with all the proceeds going to the charitable trust.

“It is important to me to give back – it’s not all about the bottom line. There has to be some other factor to make me feel like I have been true to who I am.”

That’s captured in an extract for Stephanie Murray Mortgages’ mission statement: “Our success will enable us to provide housing assistance to the under-privileged within those provincial communities.”

The mortgage advisor has also helped hundreds of clients fulfil their property dreams by offering all banking options to ensure the best solutions. Stephanie has a wealth of knowledge through personal experience in buying and selling, rental property investment, building, and property development. She and her advisors work face-to-face with clients and also use online video platforms to connect when necessary or preferred.

At the 2017 TSB Taranaki Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards, Stephanie and her team won the New & Emerging Excellence Award and were highly commended for the Employer of Choice Award. They followed that up in 2018, receiving highly commended in both Small Business Excellence and Employer of Choice.

The forthright and natural leader has many parts to her on-the-move life. She is Vice President of the Taranaki Property Investors Association and a mentor for Business

Mentors New Zealand, along with various school age mentoring programmes.

SMM is also involved with Innovate Taranaki and has sponsored the last two events, and in 2023, Stephanie was a judge/selector.

“The real me is pretty much, what you see is what you get. I am pretty straight-up and everyone always knows where they are with me. I am extremely passionate about what I believe in, head strong, focused and determined. This often gets me into some situations,” she shares in a blog post.

“I am a lover of fashion, wine, and horse racing . . . they go well together.” And she always puts her best foot forward.

An online story in Location Homes shows her in a home dressing room, beside beautiful shoes and boots placed artfully on glass-fronted shelves. A Stuff story published on November 18, 2017, puts her in the spotlight at Canterbury’s Riccarton Park Racecourse.

The style queen was shocked to be crowned Best Dressed Lady in the popular Fashion in the Field competition. She won wearing an outfit she designed herself and had made by Lushington Jackets in New Plymouth.

On the mortgage business front, for Stephanie it’s all about doing the best for her clients and supporting her team to be the best they can be. “Starting your own venture is by far one of the most challenging and rewarding things you can do. It takes over your whole life if you are passionate about it and SMM is really my baby,” she writes.

“I love being able to ‘better’ clients’ and families’ financial situation and making a real difference in their lives. Homes and investments are significant to families’ security, and it’s a pleasure to influence progress with our knowledge and experience.”

stephanie@stephaniemurray.mortgage

STEPHANIE MURRAY MORTGAGES

We will deliver more teachers, more support for teachers, more classrooms, funding for structured literacy, the healthy schools lunch programme and charter schools through our $2.9 billion investment in Education.

Budget 2024 represents a new era of careful government spending, lower taxes for hard-working New Zealanders and a reprioritisation of funding towards the frontline.

National is serious is about cracking down on crime which is why the Government is investing $651 million over four years to deliver an extra 500 police officers and provide them with the tools they need to do their jobs.

Tax relief will give the average income household up to $102 per fortnight, plus FamilyBoost childcare payments of up to $150 for eligible families.

We will deliver more doctors, more hospital and specialist services, more breast screening, more mental health services, and more medicines through our investment of $16 billion in Health across three Budgets.

Restoring

Infrastructure Transport

We will deliver more teachers, more support for teachers, more classrooms, funding for structured literacy, the healthy schools lunch programme and charter schools through our $2.9 billion investment in Education.

$1.2 billion to invest in resilience infrastructure and regional projects that support economic growth. $140 million for an extra 1,500 social housing places, delivered by community housing providers.

Tax Relief Education Infrastructure Health

$1.2 billion to invest in resilience infrastructure and regional projects that support economic growth. $140 million for an extra 1,500 social housing places, delivered by community housing providers.

National is serious is about cracking down on crime which is why the Government is investing $651 million over four years to deliver an extra 500 police officers and provide them with the tools they need to do their jobs.

A boost to the draft GPS on land transport and Roads of Regional Significance programme, including $500 million for a Pothole Prevention Fund.

Law and Order Transport

A boost to the draft GPS on land transport and Roads of Regional Significance programme, including $500 million for a Pothole Prevention Fund.

Brokering a bridge between people and business

Brokering a bridge between people and business

Brokering a bridge between people and business

Income’s employment products and services.

Dougy Martin says he’d do his job for free.

Dougy Martin says he’d do his job for free.

“There’s not one morning where I haven’t woken up and thought ‘I don’t want to go to work’. Every day is different and every person you meet is different. You adapt quickly to who you are meeting with and talking to.”

“There’s not one morning where I haven’t woken up and thought ‘I don’t want to go to work’. Every day is different and every person you meet is different. You adapt quickly to who you are meeting with and talking to.”

And there are plenty ranging from subsidies to help employers while a client is training and upskilling in a new role, to helping purchase extra gear for a job or supporting people with other costs like transport, licences or childcare.

brokers then keep an eye out for folk who may be appropriate to fill those roles or develop into those roles. Shortlisted CVs are passed on, then it’s up to us to make contact with the candidate.

brokers then keep an eye out for folk who may be appropriate to fill those roles or develop into those roles. Shortlisted CVs are passed on, then it’s up to us to make contact with the candidate.

Income’s employment products and services.

And there are plenty ranging from subsidies to help employers while a client is training and upskilling in a new role, to helping purchase extra gear for a job or supporting people with other costs like transport, licences or childcare.

In addition, he’s keen that employers know about the MSD website Kimi Mahi Mai – Find a Job to list jobs for free.

Dougy Martin says he’d do his job for free.

“There’s not one morning where I haven’t woken up and thought ‘I don’t want to go to work’. Every day is different and every person you meet is different. You adapt quickly to who you are meeting with and talking to.”

He’s a work broker in the Taranaki team of Work and Income which sees him linking people who need a job with businesses and organisations seeking employees. Dougy works across North Taranaki and describes the role as being like a bridge.

He’s a work broker in the Taranaki team of Work and Income which sees him linking people who need a job with businesses and organisations seeking employees.

Dougy works across North Taranaki and describes the role as being like a bridge.

Dougy’s connection with his community and his work history is a big plus. He’s the son of the late Reverend Albie Martin, a Waitara identity for many years, as well as having worked in a range of roles himself.

“I’ve worked in Riverlands in Waitara and before that I was a welder and a welding inspector and quality control coordinator.

He’s a work broker in the Taranaki team of Work and Income which sees him linking people who need a job with businesses and organisations seeking employees.

“We speak on behalf of the client to the employer. We find the right person to fit the criteria so having a relationship with employers is really important.”

“We speak on behalf of the client to the employer. We find the right person to fit the criteria so having a relationship with employers is really important.”

Dougy’s connection with his community and his work history is a big plus. He’s the son of the late Reverend Albie Martin, a Waitara identity for many years, as well as having worked in a range of roles himself.

“We have developed a relationship with our brokers, where we now have faith that the CVs getting to us are pretty likely to be a good fit.”

“We have developed a relationship with our brokers, where we now have faith that the CVs getting to us are pretty likely to be a good fit.”

In addition, he’s keen that employers know about the MSD website Kimi Mahi Mai – Find a to list jobs for free.

His message to other employers is to give MSD a go. “If our experience is anything to go by, you will not be disappointed.”

His message to other employers is to give MSD a go. “If our experience is anything to go by, you will not be disappointed.”

Dougy’s connection with his community and his work history a big plus. He’s the son of the late Reverend Albie Martin, a Waitara identity for many years, as well as having worked in a range of roles himself.

“I’ve worked in Riverlands in Waitara and before that I was a welder and a welding inspector and quality control coordinator.

“All my jobs have been local and that’s how I got to meet and make a lot of relationships with employers.”

Dougy works across North Taranaki and describes the role as being like a bridge.

“We speak on behalf of the client to the employer. We find

“All my jobs have been local and that’s how I got to meet and make a lot of relationships with employers.”

You can’t put a price on getting someone into a job they thought they wouldn’t get, he says. “You can actually transform someone’s future. I know what it’s like to have second chances, third chances.”

the right person to fit the criteria so having a relationship

with employers is really important.”

Not only is it about understanding which client will fit which job, but also requires a thorough understanding of Work and

Not only is it about understanding which client will fit which job, but also requires a thorough understanding of Work and

You can’t put a price on getting someone into a job they thought they wouldn’t get, he says. “You can actually transform someone’s future. I know what it’s like to have second chances, third chances.”

The Devon has employed a wide range of people through MSD including in housekeeping, porters, food and beverage and maintenance.

Not only is it about understanding which client will fit which job, but also requires a thorough understanding of Work and

“I’ve worked in Riverlands in Waitara and before that I was a welder and a welding inspector and quality control coordinator.

“All my jobs have been local and that’s how I got to meet and make a lot of relationships with employers.”

Meanwhile local employer Peter Tennent, Managing Director of The Devon Hotel, has worked closely with MSD’s work brokers, and says they have taken the time to get to know the business.

Meanwhile local employer Peter Tennent, Managing Director of The Devon Hotel, has worked closely with MSD’s work brokers, and says they have taken the time to get to know the business.

• Dougy Martin will speak at a breakfast meeting of He Toronga Pakihi ki Taranaki, the Taranaki Māori Business Network, on 3 July at the RSA in Waitara from 7am. To attend the event register through the network’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/ hetorongapakihikitaranaki

• Dougy Martin will speak at a breakfast meeting of He Toronga Pakihi ki Taranaki, the Taranaki Māori Business Network, on 3 July at the RSA in Waitara from 7am. To attend the event register through the network’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/ hetorongapakihikitaranaki

You can’t put a price on getting someone into a job they thought they wouldn’t get, he says. “You can actually transform someone’s future. I know what it’s like to have second chances, third chances.”

Meanwhile local employer Peter Tennent, Managing Director of The Devon Hotel, has worked closely with MSD’s work brokers, and says they have taken the time to get know the business.

The Devon has employed a wide range of people through MSD including in housekeeping, porters, food and beverage and maintenance.

• To find out more about Work and Income’s employer services in Taranaki visit our website Employers - Work and Income

• To find out more about Work and Income’s employer services in Taranaki visit our website Employers - Work and Income

The Devon has employed a wide range of people through MSD including in housekeeping, porters, food and beverage and maintenance.

“We advise of opportunities. Our

“We advise of opportunities. Our

“We advise of opportunities. Our

Rebecca Mende

Membership Coordinator

Taranaki Chamber of Commerce

+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

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

and representation

EVENTS CALENDAR 2024

Jo Whyte

Events Manager

Taranaki Chamber of Commerce

+64 6 759 9080 | +64 21 533 300 jo@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

Melissa Keith

Placement Support Coordinator

Taranaki Chamber of Commerce

+64 6 759 9080 | +64 21 225 4531 melissa@taranakichamber.co.nz

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

Mary

YOUNG ENTERPRISE SCHEME

We are now in to Term Two of the YES year and are seeing some amazing results coming out from this years’ young entrepreneurs. The students have come up with some unique and innovative ideas including; plant fertilizers, children’s books and workbooks, mushroom jerky, a 3-in-1 golf tool, an avocado cutter, and an Emergency & Disaster kit.

Last term the students completed Challenge One, which was validating their business by taking their prototype to their target market to receive feedback. It was great to see the students out and about in the community and we had one of the highest Challenge One completion rates in the country - which was fantastic!

WITT sponsors the Ideation Validation Award which goes to their choice of best business concept for 2024. This year’s winner went to BYou Hope (from new YES school Stratford High School) for their children’s book with a powerful message.

Taranaki Regional Council sponsors the Sustainable Business Award. This year’s winning team was Māiatanga from Stratford High School which is producing Kawakawa & Manuka balms. This team has been judged as having effectively embedded the principles of sustainability into its business. A big thank you to GRAPHIX too, for providing free business cards to all of our YES teams! This was greatly appreciated.

Term Two involves the students doing a five-minute business pitch to judges from the business community. These pitches

are such a valuable exercise for the students to help improve their public speaking skills and gain more confidence. We held a public speaking workshop with Sam Bennett prior to the pitches, which helped them prepare and get tips. I look forward to seeing the teams putting their best foot forward next month!

A programme like YES would not be possible in our region without the generous support of our amazing and dedicated sponsors, with a special thanks to WITT and Toi Foundation.

Megan Lepper Taranaki Regional Coordinator
megan@taranakichamber.co.nz

People // Process // Performance

TAKING YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT STEP

How are leaders made?

Leadership is often perceived as an innate quality that you either possess or don’t. However, that is not really the case - leaders can be made. What can you do to develop your leadership skills?

Personal Development

The journey to becoming a leader begins with personal development. Effective leaders are self-aware; they understand their strengths, weaknesses, and values. Aspiring leaders are proactive in seeking out opportunities to learn and grow.

Experience

Real-world challenges and opportunities shape leadership skills. Experiences help in learning how to navigate complexity, manage conflicts, and make decisions. Every experience, no matter how small, contributes to growth. Leaders also learn from their mistakes, viewing them as valuable lessons rather than setbacks.

Mentorship

Mentorship plays a pivotal role in developing leaders. Experienced mentors provide guidance, share their wisdom, and offer constructive criticism. They act as role models, demonstrating leadership in action.

Embracing Change

In today’s world, leaders must be adaptable and open to change by being receptive to new ideas, technologies, and ways of thinking. Leaders are often at the forefront of driving change within their organizations. They embrace innovation and are not afraid to challenge the status quo.

Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EI) is a key attribute of successful leaders. EI involves the ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. Leaders with high emotional intelligence are skilled in empathy, communication, and conflict resolution.

Leadership is not a trait bestowed upon a few; leadership attributes can be developed by anyone willing to invest the effort. Through continuous learning and growth, leaders are made, not born.

Team Leader Management Programme

New Plymouth

Eight weekly workshops of 2.5 hours

Beginning Tuesday 6 August, 9.30-12noon, then each of the next 7 Tuesdays.

“I recently had the privilege of participating in Implement’s Team Leadership programme with Shona, and I can confidently say that it has been a transformative experience. The time spent on this programme has provided me with skills and insight for my role as team leader and also contributed to my overall personal and professional growth.”

TRAINING

Ricoh Room Digital Conference Suite

Half way through the year and we have already delivered 35+ workshops to 200+ attendees. It’s always exciting to feel the buzz as participants leave the room after a workshop has been delivered. Fresh ideas, inspired minds and upskilled individuals creates a fun vibe. Knowing these new skills will be integrated into business practices is both satisfying and rewarding for all – trainers, managers and employees – something the Chamber team is proud to be a part of.

First time delivered was The Aeroplane Game© with Productivity People. What a fun workshop – nothing like ‘participating in the business’ to really learn! This workshop ensures all attendees have total participation and buy-in. Everyone took away sound principles to work on in their business.

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

Olena Williams Media ran the successful delivery of Social Media Channels, Rules of Engagement, Personal Branding, Security and Video Content. Going above and beyond with service delivery, attendees are even offered a complimentary oneto-one consultation. With three more valuable workshops to come, register now to secure your space.

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

For finance management you can’t go past the BDO Xero workshop series. Learning how to maximise opportunities using the Xero software is both satisfying for operators and beneficial to business success. Make the most of the opportunity to upskill and register for the Xero Foundations and Intermediate workshops today. workshop was delivered to a full-house. Always high

Ricoh Room

WORKING TOGETHER TO SUPPORT AND EMPOWER BUSINESS

value with practical tools to apply in any situation, Blanchard delivers quality in all their workshops. Take the opportunity to upskill and register for one of the Blanchard workshops on offer.

If you are in the business of tendering, then join us for the Positioning to Win Tenders workshop delivered by Height Project Management. This workshop applies to anyone involved in helping to pull together tender submissions for large or small projects through government, local council, regional council, and/or the private sector.

Improving HR Performance was delivered by Peak Coaching – top tips to optimize staff capacity and capability. Next up is Customer Satisfaction – register for this workshop to maximise your customer loyalty potential.

Back and popular as ever is the Speaking and Presenting with Confidence series. Possibly because the art of public speaking is not always popular, these workshops are sought after and a necessity for many.

Excel Training Taranaki continues to meet demand delivering high-value, popular workshops. The latest editions are ChatGPT for Excel and Business. Learning to safely use these AI tools is a must for every business.

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

As you can see, the opportunities to upskill are plentiful, so please take the time to review our full training schedule and see what is on offer that would benefit

your organisation and team. Please visit our website for full details on these upcoming workshops:

• BDO, Accounting

o Xero Foundations

o Xero Intermediate

• Blanchard New Zealand, Leadership

o Conversational Capacity©

o Blanchard® Management Essentials

o SELF Leadership

o Coaching Essentials®

o The SLII® Experience

• Height Project Management, Tendering

o Positioning to Win Tenders

• Peak Coaching, Business Mentoring

o Customer Satisfaction

• Olena Williams Media, Social Media

o Events Management

o Power of Groups

o Photos on Smartphone

• Excel Training Taranaki, Microsoft Excel

o Basics/Intermediate

o Intermediate/Advanced

o Microsoft Excel & Chat GPT

o Dashboards

• Maranga Tāngata Tiriti

o Te Tiriti o Waitangi 101

julia@taranakichamber.co.nz

Ricoh Room Digital Conference Suite

Digital 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 gives you access to a state of the art communications hub in a self-contained conference room.

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

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

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

Julia Collins Office Manager

FOR PURPOSE PARTNERSHIP Circulate

Theflowandreciprocationofgoodwillandsupportcreatedthroughgenerousgiving purpose-ledbusiness.

SEEING OPPORTUNITY WITHIN CRISIS

Organisations across the public, private and charitable sectors are facing uncertain futures as we navigate a range of crises related to cost of living, housing and economic stability. However, within this stressful period there may be opportunity for review and change.

For charities now is the time to ask the really hard question – have we reached a point where our own survival is the single biggest focus of our time and energy? If the answer is yes then it’s time to consider how to respond to that, and within that conversation closing or merging is a valid option to explore.

Closing may not be the right option, it might be that a new partnership or a merger would be an exciting opportunity, but holding on in survival mode is definitely not in the best interest of the organisation or the issues it is seeking to respond to.

If your organisation is facing this situation reach out to Circulate through Maura. She can connect you with people who can help you navigate what’s ahead.

BUSINESS FOR GOOD

strategic and targeted they were in their giving, the more effective they could be for the people they wanted to help.

Fast forward to today, they have created a charity called Eat a Rainbow Foundation through which they provide meals to those who need it most. This is now done via nine partnerships that they work with in our city. They are: Roderique Hope Trust, Zeal, Wise Charitable Trust, Community Nurses, Hapu Wananga Ki Taranaki, local Primary Schools, Base Hospital, Gabby’s Starlit Hope and Ronald McDonald House in Auckland. The latter is for meals for families who need to take their children to Starship Hospital.

CIRCULATE BANNER SEEING

All organisations go through a lifecycle. There are many illustrations and descriptions of the stages of this lifecycle, but a simple outline is below. Unfortunately, we see many organisations persist within the decline phase, fighting to hold on to their existence instead of changing what they do or how they operate to enable revival, or accepting that the season of the organisation is finishing and it’s time to close.

Over the next few editions, we will be profiling some businesses who do ‘business for good’.

our time and energy? If the answer is yes then it’s time to consider how to respond to that, and within that conversation closing or merging is a valid option to explore.

All organisations go through a lifecycle. There are many illustrations and descriptions of the stages of this lifecycle, but a simple outline is below. Unfortunately, we see many organisations persist within the decline phase, fighting to hold on to their existence instead of changing what they do or how they operate to enable revival, or accepting that the season of the organisation is finishing and it s time to close.

We all benefit from the work of charities and voluntary organisations. However, as circumstances change, they may no longer be appropriate, necessary or in the best interests of a cause or wider society. Every voluntary organisation should regularly ask whether it’s still well placed to achieve its goals, and tough times can be a catalyst for this process. Closure can seem like a difficult decision, but ultimately closing an organisation may achieve a greater impact for your cause.

There are many ways that businesses do this, all are commendable. We will be looking at the different means to support groups and do good. What is the driver for a business? What is their ‘why’? If you are one of these businesses please contact us, we would love to hear your story.

The business that I want to highlight in this edition is Theory Food. Many of you will know them and have sampled their culinary art, which is literally what it is. For Michelle Hartley and Momo Martin, their ‘why’ is so much more than creating food.

In the last financial year, through this collaborative approach, they have given 4899 meals. This is up from 910 in 2021, which shows an increase in need plus the generosity of the business and donors. The figure represents 1900 families having been supported and is an illustration of the strength of community groups working together.

Closing may not be the right option, it might be that a new partnership or a merger would be an exciting opportunity, but holding on in survival mode is definitely not in the best interest of the organisation or the issues it is seeking to respond to.

We all benefit from the work of charities and voluntary organisations. However, as circumstances change, they may no longer be appropriate, necessary or in the best interests of a cause or wider society. Every voluntary organisation should regularly ask whether it’s still well placed to achieve its goals, and tough times can be a catalyst for this process. Closure can seem like a difficult decision, but ultimately closing an organisation may achieve a greater impact for your cause.

As a teenager Momo says she always wanted to give a portion of what she earned to a good purpose. This was her ethos, a certain portion didn’t belong to her. Regarding Michelle, Momo says, “she has a heart of gold and is always wanting to help people.”

The two met at WITT while doing a Culinary Art course and found that their values and love of creating food aligned. As a result, in 2018 Theory Food began.

Unsurprisingly from the outset, their business always had a ‘giving to a cause’ component. However, as the business developed, they realised the more

Whenever a corporate client engages Theory Food, not only do they experience great food, but 10% of all revenue (not profit), goes to Eat a Rainbow Foundation meals. Over the last financial year this has enabled Theory Food to donate $20k towards these meals. You may have been a part of that and contributed in this way to helping people at their most vulnerable. We applaud Theory Food, as they exemplify a ‘business for good’.

maura@taranakichamber.co.nz

Maura Young Partnership & Projects Manager

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.

Last time we shared information about Chamber Hub’s support for job seekers and our Work Ready Workshops focused on planning, preparation, practice, and perseverance. But, how much do you know about what we do for Taranaki businesses? Here are four things we do:

• We introduce work ready, qualified candidates to you. Our individualised service includes a 90-minute intake and assessment, a comprehensive CV review, and a report on both to increase our understanding. This process builds our confidence to make appropriate introductions.

• We make candidates aware of your business. Each job seeker we engage with gets a copy of the latest Taranaki Business Review magazine. At each group workshop we run, we display and refer to current and previous articles about Taranaki businesses. Advertising in this magazine increases the likelihood of our candidates seeing and learning about you.

• Running interference is a thing we do, too. If your business doesn’t acknowledge receipt of applications and give closure to applicants, we’ve heard about it. If we received a free barista made coffee for every time we’ve heard the phrase, “I didn’t hear back”, we would save a lot of money! While the criticisms are valid, we help put them into perspective and generally speaking, ‘have your back’.

• Sharing recruitment and labour market trends is an action we enjoy. Take, for example, the growing trend of automating the recruitment process and implementation of AI. According to Business Insider, job seekers and recruiters are both using AI in hiring and it’s causing chaos. AI increases the amount of labour for job applicants who are forced to speak to bots, interact with ‘ghost’ employers, complete puzzles and extensive online exams and psychometric assessments, and attend automated interviews; all before even reaching a human. No wonder there is growing push back. As a business owner, do you want to run the risk of creating adversarial relationships with potential candidates as well as navigate privacy concerns related to the growing use of AI in recruitment?

Job seekers who contact us from other larger city centres of New Zealand exclaim their surprise when we return their calls and emails. Our ability as a region to provide personalised care is becoming a rarity but it is an opportunity for us to maintain a point of difference. Let us know what more we can do for your business. Melissa Keith Placement Support Coordinator

melissa@taranakichamber.co.nz

mary@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.

Mary Sagen Placement Support Coordinator

MEMBERSHIP

Membership of the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce is an asset for any business aiming to thrive in today’s competitive environment. By actively engaging with the Chamber’s offerings, businesses can unlock new opportunities for growth and success.

Here are some top tips to help you make the most of your Chamber membership:

• Engage Actively in Networking Events

The Chamber hosts a variety of events designed to foster connections among members. Regularly attending these events can open doors to new business opportunities and collaborations. Don’t just attend; engage actively by introducing yourself, exchanging business cards, and following up with new contacts.

• Utilise Training Resources

Take advantage of the Chamber’s workshops, seminars, and training sessions. These cover a range of topics relevant to business growth, from digital marketing and financial management to leadership and customer service excellence. Continuous learning and professional development can give your business a competitive edge.

• Promote Your Business through our Marketing Opportunities

As a Chamber member, you have access to numerous marketing and promotional channels. Feature your business in the Chamber’s magazine, eDM, website, and social media platforms. This can enhance your brand’s visibility within the local business community.

• Stay Informed

Keep up with the latest news and updates from the Chamber. Stay connected and keep an eye on what we share as this can help you make informed decisions and keep your business ahead of the curve.

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

Congratulations to BOON with 2024 marking 50 years of business. Undoubtably a significant milestone to celebrate.

BOON has been a Key Regional Partner of the Chamber for several years now as our architects.

As design thinkers and renowned architects, not only are they responsible for many of the distinguished buildings in Taranaki, they have also made a mark in a number of places throughout New Zealand.

Over their 50 years they have weathered economies and trends, diversified in tight markets, all the while growing one of New Zealand’s best architects and architectural companies.

Today BOON’S multidisciplinary team, works across architecture, landscape and urban design, event, brand and experience.

As award winning architects they recently received three awards at the Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects Western region awards in the Housing, Public Architecture and Small Project Architecture categories.

In 2019, at the TSB Taranaki Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, they were the overall Supreme Award Winners.

BOON continues to champion Taranaki out of the region, and are big supporters of many local industries, initiatives and events within.

We wish you all the best for the next 50 years.

Implement – Our People and Culture Key Regional Partner, has also reached a milestone and is celebrating 20 years in business. Shona Glentworth has had a strong association with the Chamber over many years in a variety of different roles, including GM and Chair of the Board, and now holds a life membership. She is well known as someone who has always been a champion of Taranaki businesses.

With her expertise and her years of experience across different roles and businesses both large and small, Shona has created a suite of training and expertise to benefit individuals and businesses in our region and beyond. These cover topics like leadership, personal development programmes, diagnostic tools, coaching and of course

NATIONAL PARTNERS

the brown bag series that covers many relevant ongoing topics.

Congratulations to Implement, a great achievement.

LEARNER ME

May saw the collaboration of Learner Me and WITT with IT training, where Learner Me is providing level 4 and 5 information technology diploma programmes.

Learner Me, a proven IT provider with a full suite of learning support and pastoral care, will enable the current and next generation to be well equipped with the latest IT skills and knowledge for industry.

This is an example of the strength that is possible with this type of collaboration within our region.

Congratulations to both parties.

Projects Manager

maura@taranakichamber.co.nz

KEY REGIONAL PARTNERS

privileged.”

“...

Secondly, the SMM Charity Golf Tournament, a day of golfing, and responsible day drinking, concluding with a charity auction.

All raised for the Roderique Hope Trust, a local Taranaki housing charity who provide a range of services to the community, in particular homeless families.

This is a cause that aligns closely to SMM’s mission statement. “... Our success will enable us to provide housing assistance to the underprivileged.” @StephanieMurrayMortgages | 0800 33 00 22 | www.stephaniemurray.mortgage

SMM holds two charity events annually: The SMM Noir Blanc Progressive Charity Dinner is held in late winter (2024 event date TBC), with the evening starting at one restaurant than guests are split into 3 groups and to have their entree, main & dessert, at a different restaurant, followed by a charity auction to round off the night.

Secondly, the SMM Charity Golf Tournament, a day of golfing, and responsible day drinking, concluding with a charity auction.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.