Volume 7 | Issue 7 | December 2022 www.waterfordpress.co.nz Ōtorohanga Calling The Ōtorohanga District is welcoming a steady stream of people seeking a more affordable and relaxed lifestyle... T Page 33
2 | Contents 42| Racing this time The thoroughbreds at Awapuni Racecourse now have the benefit of a brand-new synthetic track. 10| Powering ahead A strong company culture is at the heart of Linepower’s ongoing success. 59 | Branching out Arb Innovations founder Craig de Denus says the industry provides a wide spectrum of career opportunties. 10 59 42 These conditions are prescribed for the sake of understanding between the Company and its clients. Advertising is charged for on the basis of space taken up using a standard tabloid page. Actual space may be reduced during the printing process but this will effect all advertisers equally so no credit will be given for any reduction in size due to processing. The Company reserves the right to alter, change or omit entirely any advertisement or article that it considers to be objectionable or which may contravene any law. 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Business South accepts no responsibilty for loss of photos or manuscripts. #businesscentral #yourstory www.waterfordpress.co.nz Green School New Zealand ..........................................03 Breadcraft - Wairarapa..................................................06 Whanganui District Council ..........................................07 Whanganui Airport ........................................................08 Linepower .......................................................................10 Taranaki Radiology ........................................................14 Hāwera Silver Fern Farms.............................................16 Symons Group................................................................17 Dannevirke Chamber of Commerce............................18 Tararua Alliance .............................................................20 Kiwi Lumber Holdings ...................................................24 Morris and Bailey ...........................................................25 JTD Building ....................................................................26 NZ Natural Clothing .......................................................28 South Taranaki District Council ....................................29 CentrePort ......................................................................30 Ōtorohanga District Council .........................................33 Hastings District Council ...............................................34 Drainways .......................................................................36 Horizons Regional Council ............................................38 Awapuni Racecourse .....................................................42 Brunton Engineering .....................................................44 Greenmount Foods .......................................................45 Affco - Wairoa .................................................................46 Four Seasons Packhouse ..............................................49 Rembrandt Fine Arts .....................................................50 MB Century.....................................................................52 Connectics.......................................................................55 EAS Waikato....................................................................56 ABC Milking Solutions....................................................58 Arb Innovations ..............................................................59 Stratmore Construction Solutions ...............................60 PSI Brand.........................................................................61 Trust Property Management ........................................62 Future Developments ...................................................63 The Wellington Co..........................................................64 BRANZ .............................................................................66 Chris Burns Construction..............................................68 Dougan Homes .............................................................70 Versatile New Plymouth................................................72 KDH Kiwi Designed Homes ...........................................74 RS Design and Build .......................................................77 Tony Lepelaars Builders................................................78 Sentinel Homes - Taranaki............................................80 KiwiSpan - Hawke’s Bay.................................................82 Jones Builders .................................................................84 Repose Cabins ...............................................................86 Cullen Keiser Architecture ............................................87 Designgroup Stapleton Elliott .......................................88 Bonnifait + Giesen Architects .......................................89 D-Mac Joinery .................................................................90 Well Hung Joinery...........................................................92 Rabbitte Joinery..............................................................94 Workshop Designs.........................................................95 Summerset Group Holdings .........................................96 Wesley Methodist Church.............................................99 South Pacific Landscapes............................................100 OUR PARTNERS: Christchurch Office 112 Wrights Road, Addington, Christchurch Phone 03-983 5500 PO Box 37 346 www.waterfordpress.co.nz Queenstown Office 70 Glenda Drive, Queenstown 9300 PO Box 2581, Wakatipu MANAGING DIRECTOR James Lynch james@waterfordpress.co.nz EDITORIAL Editor Nick Gormack nick@waterfordpress.co.nz Sub-editors Paul Mein, Randall Johnston Journalists Ange Davidson, Kelly Deeks, Hugh de Lacy, Russell Fredric, Rachel Graham, Richard Loader, Kim Newth, Sue Russell, Karen Phelps, Virginia Wright RESEARCH & MARKETING James Anderson, Sam Dart, Chris Graves, Megan Hawkins, Chris McPhee, Colin Morais, Annie Patrick, Chris Pearce, Danielle Percival, Adam Shirra, Alasdair Thomson, Jane Watson sales@waterfordpress.co.nz PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT General Manager Luke Lynch luke@waterfordpress.co.nz Graphic Artists Connor Gosnell, Anton Gray, Francesca Hildawa Sophie McCleary, Liki Udam art@waterfordpress.co.nz CONTENT COORDINATORS Andrea Benns, Patti Brown, Ann-Marie Frentz OFFICE AND ACCOUNTS Helen Bourne accounts@waterfordpress.co.nz Jill Holland reception@waterfordpress.co.nz Lyn Barlow lyn@waterfordpress.co.nz
| 3 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Green School New Zealand “We think every school should have rainbows and waterfalls. Everywhere you look you are reminded that you’re part of somewhere, something magical.” to page 4 Richard Loader Thriving on its sustainable mission Idyllically located in Oakura, under the Kaitake Ranges, GSNZ is nestled on a 121 acre ex-farm site, affording views of Taranaki Maunga and the bountiful Tasman ocean. • German Designed Floor Screed produced in New Zealand • Fast Installation, Thinner screeds & better warmth underfoot • Quality Control Testing to meet New Zealand Standards. Phone: 07 888 4327 or 0800 399 649 Email: info@ezymix.co.nz • Website: www.ezymix.co.nz • German Designed Floor Screed produced in New Zealand • Fast Installation, Thinner screeds & better warmth underfoot • Quality Control Testing to meet New Zealand Standards. Phone: 07 888 4327 or 0800 399 649 Email: info@ezymix.co.nz • Website: www.ezymix.co.nz TARANAKI WIDE Ph. 06 757 8012 | 137 Molesworth Street, New Plymouth Ph. 06 278 0129 | 97 Camberwell Road, Hawera admin.hawera@graypainters.co.nz www.grayspainters.co.nz New Home Specialists | Residential | Commercial | Industrial Expert Paper Hangers | Spray Painters | Water Proofing Water Blasting | Sand Blasting | Muralflex Cowshed Coatings Do you remember the days down by the old school yard, where uninspiring classrooms rose from hard concrete ground; barren of freshness, innovation or diversification and lacking the magical sense of a welcoming place where the gift of learning was fun. Green School New Zealand (GSNZ) is disrupting and challenging this archaic picture of Kiwi schools, by creating intentional spaces of beauty, and a being a global iconic beacon for sustainable education; a school for now and for the future. Idyllically located in Oakura, under the Kaitake Ranges next to the Oakura river in Aotearoa’s sunniest region – Taranaki, GSNZ is nestled on a 121 acre ex-farm site, affording views of Taranaki Maunga and the bountiful Tasman ocean. Founders, Michael and Rachel Perrett, selected the site as it is was their home region, and ranked highest in their feasibility study. “Taranaki needed another education option,” says Michael. “GSNZ’s location has many natural assets, an incredible microclimate, regenerating forests, pure alpine river water and strong natural soils, diverse flora and fauna, not to mention rainbows and waterfalls. “We think every school should have rainbows and waterfalls. Everywhere you look you are reminded that you’re part of somewhere, something magical. “Rachel and I are our mission. We are not just learning green, we are living green. Now. We live our Green School values and test our skills. Everyone is part of the Green School way of thinking and learning.” Many notable local and international designers and experts have been invited to contribute to the Green School vision. The campus’ master plan was created by Neil Thomas at Atelier One, UK, and Elora Hardy at Ibuku, Bali. Stage One was completed from bare paddock to operating school in nine months, and encompassed three waka/learning pods, which are elliptical off-ground structures. There was also a repurposed administration and toilet block, a refurbished haybarn transformed into a community centre, and all the infrastructure required for the school to operate and scale. Stage Two is nearing completion, on budget and only a little over time, says Michael. “The eleventh of November has been scheduled for the grand opening,” says Michael. “We’re very, very proud to be able to deliver such a quality world class project in New Zealand, at this difficult time for the construction industry.” Designed by Glenn Brebner and Milca Severo from New Plymouth architectural practice BOON Ltd, infused with Michael’s passionate vision, Stage Two includes The Kina, the stage’s jewel in the crown. A very dramatic circular building, The Kina is made up of five segments, or learning spaces, for the junior school and will take 160 enrolments. “We intentionally select shapes derived from nature. The Kina is the perfect shape for an interconnected but separated learning environment. Kina is Taonga, a precious delicacy and universally respected food source by coastal indigenous people worldwide.” Next to the Kina is the iHub (Innovation hub), which includes a large scale ‘makers’ space’ embracing metalwork and woodwork facilities, kitchen and toilets. There is also a recreation surface for sports. Selected following a competitive tender process, Livingstone Building Limited brought a multi-regional footprint and public building code experience to the project.
4 | REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Green School New Zealand Campus designed to inspire students Michael suggests that neuro-architecture, as it is known, should be the starting point of every structure’s design. from page 3 Industrial | Commercial | Residential PROFESSIONAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES ACROSS THE NORTH ISLAND (06) 759 - 0414 Sustainable Glulam Timber in Classroom Environment Talk to us today if you are embarking on a Green Star or Living Building Challenge. +64 9 253 9349 www.timberlabsolutions.com New Plymouth Joinery Designer Kitchens | Laundries | Bathrooms | Appliance Packages | All Joinery 6 8 8 8 6 8 86 design@newplymouthjoinery.co.nz Innovative Individual Design. . . . . . CONTRACT I NG LTD BRIAN MARTIN PILE DRIVING | RETAINING WALLS | DRILLING FOUNDATIONS | SHEET PILING | CRANE WORK Proud to be associated with Green School New Zealand info@bmartincontracting.co.nz | www.bmartincontracting.co.nz Fabric Structures is a leader in creative fabric architecture. CONTACT US CALL +64 (09) 303 4373 | EMAIL INFO@FABRICSTRUCTURE.CO.NZ CANOPIES / ENCLOSURES METAL MESH INTERIORS FACADES Michael says it has been important for him to be involved in the design of the campus, throughout its journey. “Buildings can affect how we feel, they may even induce a physical response. “Humanity knows how to build joy and inspire through construction. Think museums, art galleries and dictator’s castles. Typically, we do not build this way for our children, but we should.” Michael suggests that neuro-architecture, as it is known, should be the starting point of every structure’s design, especially those containing our most precious community members — our children. “It is unlikely you can think outside the box while sitting inside one. You have to teach sustainable future inside an example of sustainability. GSNZ teaches sustainability so we must do sustainability. “We do this mainly through considered materials selection, supply chain interrogation, sophisticated digital design, offsite manufacturing and modern building techniques. “GSNZ buildings have been by design faster to build, higher performing and less wasteful than most others by quite a margin — 60% less to landfill.” GSNZ is an international destination school with half the learners from abroad, attracting whole families that especially immigrate to New Zealand for GSNZ. “Many nationalities and cultures are represented in our diverse roll. The school is aimed at families who are searching for choice and community. “We are now back to our Pre-Covid roll projection and ultimately we’re looking at a roll of 500 from Year 1 through to Year 13.” Following a short break at the end of Stage Two, a third stage will develop planned infrastructure to support the school’s continued growth.
Being part of a groundbreaking initiative within the New Zealand construction and education sectors brought with it an opportunity to go on a special journey for the Premier Heating team from Taranaki. Green School New Zealand’s new ‘Kina’ structure was designed to inspire creativity while providing a safe, welcoming and nurturing space for its learners and sta . With a brief that called for energy e cient, sustainable and quality crafted products, Premier Heating owner Aaron Flood says there was always a strong synergy between what the school needed, and what his company could o er. “These beliefs rang true when planning how we could provide consistent and reliable comfort to classrooms. Through landing on an e ective in-slab (under oor) heating system, we’re able to generate warmth to the learners and educators in a highly e cient manner, by using heat recovery ventilation. The systems used also introduce fresh air into the classrooms and remove stale air, making it a safe and comfortable environment to support their everyday learning.” The installation of the under oor heating heat recovery ventilation with air source heat pump was not always easy, says Flood, with the project bringing physical and technical challenges that tested them. “We’re always looking to grow as a team and this project certainly gave us some positive challenges that we will carry with us on future projects.” Throughout the build, Premier Heating used its highest spec Stiebel Eltron products which Flood says o ered his team a great deal of con dence. “Working with an established and globally recognised brand gives us the con dence to know that we are working with the highest quality heating products, while having the local support and knowledge we can rely on for our client’s needs.” Flood says to watch Green School’s growth has been exciting, and to collaborate and be a part of local history, has been a privilege. “As the world enters a new phase, reliant on e ciencies and sustainability, our ongoing journey with Steibel Eltron sets us on the right path to meet our customer’s needs and ourish in these fast-moving environments.”
6 | Developing the recipe for success Breadcraft was a winner at the 2022 New Zealand Food Awards winning the ‘Health & Wellbeing’ award with its Rebel Bakehouse Gluten Free Sourdough & Super Seeds wraps. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Breadcraft - Wairarapa Richard Loader Your local flexible packaging partner Safe, Strong and Secure The master bakers at Breadcraft – Wairarapa have risen to the challenge with the new Rebel Bakehouse Gluten Free Sourdough & Super Seeds wraps, winning the Countdown ‘Health & Wellbeing’ award at the 2022 New Zealand Food Awards. With a meteoric rise to over 80 percent share in the New Zealand gluten-free wrap market in just two years, the bakery has strengthened its commitment to producing New Zealand’s tastiest gluten free wraps. “Gluten Free and coeliac diets don’t have to be boring with Rebel Bakehouse,” says Breadcraft General Manager, Mike Fisher. “Our new gluten free Sourdough and Super Seeds wraps are packed with nutritious, interesting ingredients, with a distinctive fermented sourdough flavour. “Using chia, poppy seeds and red quinoa, we’ve taken our original gluten free wraps to another level.” Mike adds that as the health and wellbeing categories continue to grow, Breadcraft plans to keep innovating and developing new products packed with goodness, and all importantly, packed with taste. Available in supermarkets throughout New Zealand, Rebel Bakehouse gluten-free wraps are independently tested and meet New Zealand and Australian standards, the strictest gluten-free requirements in the world. Rebel’s Low Carb Max Bagels were also selected as a finalist in the NZ Food Awards ‘Health & Wellbeing’ category. “2022 sees a rise in people looking for food that helps them eat well at home and on the go, with ingredients focused on health and wellbeing,” says Mike. “Our new Rebel Bakehouse Low Carb Max bagels carry a 5-Star Health Rating, the lowest carb bagels on the market. They’re packed full of the goodness of sesame, hemp, poppy seeds, chia, linseed, rye, barley, and quinoa for extra dietary goodness, with seeds and grains baked right through the dough, not just on top.” Rebel’s bagel range also include Three Cheese, Original and Sesame Seed as well as the only wheat-based Sourdough bagel. All bagels are uniquely fully sliced, making them super convenient and easy for everyone in the family to enjoy at home or on the go. “Launching the new wraps and bagels has been a real team effort and being selected as finalists and ultimately as a winner has given the team a serious boost. “We’re really proud of how the team has come together to create top of the range products that our consumers keep coming back for. From recipe development, production, financials, consumer insights, branding, pack design and quality management right through to a great sales effort and the logistics of getting product to market as fresh as possible, the team have outdone themselves.” Looking beyond the awards, Mike says with the team’s passion, energy and drive, absolutely anything is possible. “We’re committed to delivering top of the range, healthy innovative products that boost our consumers wellbeing. There are a number of innovative and exciting ideas in the oven, but we need to keep those under wraps, just at the moment.” Rebel Bakehouse is part of Breadcraft, a family bakery based in Masterton, with a passion for doing things differently. Established in 1942, Breadcraft is an integral part of the Wairarapa community, employing 120 people across the country, supplying delicious, hand-crafted Cottage Lane artisan bread products and Rebel Bakehouse wraps and bagels to all supermarket chains and to food service and hospitality customers throughout the country and beyond. Breadcraft was one of the first bakeries to bring artisan European style loaves such as Ciabatta and Sourdough to New Zealand and the bakery uses a unique 80 year-old sourdough starter bug that came all the way from San Francisco. While much has changed in the 21st century, Breadcraft’s commitment to good, honest ingredients, great taste and awesome value remains the same. “As always, it’s served with a big slice of aroha,” says Mike.
| 7 Richard Loader Gallery’s new facade set to sparkle REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Whanganui DC/McMillan & Lockwood: Sarjeant Gallery The Serjeant Gallery Redevelopment 04 472 1412 www.cbp.co.nz Clendon Burns & Park Ltd has operated as a rm of Consulting Structural and Civil Engineers in Wellington for over 65 years. Our ability to provide specialist structural engineering skills in a small, versatile and highly personalised team environment is one of the key reasons so many of our clients have been returning to us for decades. As Main Contractor McMillan & Lockwood are honoured to have the privilege to complete this iconic project. It has been an exciting few weeks for the Sarjeant Gallery Redevelopment project team as a final design concept for the façade of the gallery extension building in Whanganui has been revealed. While Oamaru stone was originally specified for the extension’s facade, when the current supply of stone was tested, it didn’t meet the required specification for the building. Unlike the heritage building where the exterior walls start at ground level and the blocks are stacked in layers joined together by mortar, the exterior of the new wing will be constructed from thin panels of stone commencing at the second level, held in place using a mechanical fixing system that pins each stone panel into position, with no mortar or adhesive required. Heavy plywood substrate and weather membranes will surround the second level onto which a vertical steel rail system will be attached. These rails support the brackets which hold in place the stone panels and form the facade. “This design calls for a highly specified grade of stone,” says Sarjeant Gallery Redevelopment Project Director Gaye Batty. “Oamaru stone is a natural, variable material and the quarry was unable to guarantee the density of the current supply, creating an unacceptable risk of cracking and failure if it were used as a cladding material. “However, this was seen as an opportunity to explore a range of alternative facade ideas as part of a collaborative co-design process to reflect the culture and rich history of Whanganui and Mana Whenua.” The result is an inspirational new concept for the facade which will be constructed from dark stone panels, highlighted by splashes of shiny steel Tioata inserts to create the effect of light shimmering on the water. Gaye says this light effect, that can be seen under certain conditions on the Whanganui River, is referred to as Kānapanapa, and is the key design narrative for the building chosen through a series of workshops with architect Warren & Mahoney and Te Kahui Toi, the artist group appointed by Te Rūnanga o Tūpoho. The stone panels are trapezoidal in shape and will be formed into a pattern known as Aramoana, which is unique to Whanganui, using honed and polished stone finishes to create contrast and shadow and symbolise the pathway from the river to the sea. This will mean a change in appearance of the facade from the original scope and the new wing will now contrast significantly with the 104-year-old Sarjeant Gallery, which was built of Oamaru stone, and look different from the early concept renders of the redevelopment that were used to attract the interest of funders and supporters. “From a project management perspective, the process of alternative stone selection and co-design for the façade has been robust, the granite chosen meets the strength /seismic specifications as determined by the building code, is readily available and the manufacturer/builder is confident of delivery within the construction programme.” The gallery extension, which is named Te Pātaka o Sir Te Atawhai Archie John Taiaroa, is part of a major redevelopment of the Sarjeant Gallery. “Construction is due to finish in December 2023, with the inaugural opening planned for April 2024 once the artwork and opening exhibitions have been installed,” says Gaye. The Sarjeant Gallery facade will be constructed from dark stone panels, highlighted by splashes of shiny steel Tioata inserts to create the effect of light shimmering on the water. Image: Warren & Mahoney
8 | REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Whanganui Airport Karen Phelps Airport adapts to growing demand Whanganui Airport manager, Phil McBride. info@wanganuiaeroclub.co.nz 06 345 0914 www.wanganuiaeroclub.co.nz “It’s very satisfying to win the award as we are proud of the service. We think its doing a great job and has definitely increased our awareness of activity at the airport and is helping pilots to safely operate in the airspace around Whanganui.” As Whanganui Airport has become busier improvements have been made to cope with the higher demand. A key part of this process has been the UNICOM (Universal Communications) project, which has seen the airport win the 2022 New Zealand Airport Association Small Airport of the Year award. “It’s very satisfying to win the award as we are proud of the service. We think its doing a great job and has definitely increased our awareness of activity at the airport and is helping pilots to safely operate in the airspace around Whanganui,” says Whanganui Airport manager Phil McBride. The airport, which is jointly owned by Whanganui District Council (WDC) and the Ministry of Transport, is an uncontrolled airport (no air traffic control system) like many smaller airports in New Zealand. In 2019 the Director Civil Aviation advised the WDC (Airport Operator) of the requirement to conduct an aeronautical study. This was required due to significant changes to the operating environment at Whanganui Airport, namely; a considerable increase in aerodrome traffic volume, a significant change in the type of aircraft operations and the likelihood that annual aircraft movements (take-offs or landings) would exceed 40,000 per annum over three consecutive years. The arrival of the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy (NZICPA) at Whanganui Airport had seen a rapid rise in the number of aircraft movements, growing from 25,000 to over 40,000 movements, with a forecast growth to 70,000 movements as the NZICPA became more established. Prior to the impact of COVID-19 restrictions a peak of 68,000 movements was reached. “At an uncontrolled airport pilots make broadcast radio calls to arrange their own separation. “This works okay when there are just a few aircraft but becomes more difficult when it is busy. Now they can call UNICOM (Universal Communications), an aeronautical information service, and ask if there is anyone else in the circuit or area that may potentially be a conflict,” explains Phil. Whanganui UNICOM operators maintain a constant visual and listening watch of airspace around Whanganui and aerodrome operations during the promulgated hours of service. Phil says that the vigilance and awareness that UNICOM operators display enhances the safety of airport operations, and improves situational awareness for Whanganui airspace users. Since the inception of UNICOM the occurrences of non-standard procedures have reduced significantly as a result of the educational advice and prompts that UNICOM operators are permitted to provide. Phil says that an essential element of the project was the refurbishment of the airport control tower cab, which had been unoccupied since the removal of full Air Traffic Control services by Airways NZ in 1989. The scope of the control tower renovation included rewiring the electrical system, installation of a kitchenette and storage space, provision of an HVAC system, construction of the UNICOM Operator desk stations, improvements to the airport’s Aerodrome and Weather Information Broadcast (AWIB) and the implementation of IT systems to facilitate the UNICOM service. An exciting and innovative aspect of the project is that the Whanganui Airport Control Tower Restoration Group will convert the lower floors of the building into an aviation museum and education centre. When completed mid to late 2023, the museum will display items of historical aviation significance and legacy aviation equipment, while showcasing the history of the control tower and Whanganui Airport. “With our favourable, ambient climate there has been flying training conducted in Whanganui since the 1930s; so there are a lot of historic bits and pieces about. “Some quite famous aviation people have hailed from Whanganui including Sergeant James Ward, who was awarded the Victoria Cross for climbing out onto the wing of a plane to put a fire out during WWII and two local women, Jane Winstone and Trevor Hunter, who went to the UK to serve in the Air Transport Auxiliary during WWII and flew military aircraft from the factories to the squadrons.” Today the airport is host to diverse businesses such as Aerowork, Mid West Helicopters, the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy, Superair and the Wanganui Aero Club. There are three passenger flights per day to Auckland on Air Chathams and 100150 landings of smaller planes. To cope with continued growth Whanganui Airport is in the process of building a parallel taxiway, which is in the design and tender stage to further improve operations and safety.
| 9 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Whanganui Airport The arrival of the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy at Whanganui Airport had seen a rapid rise in the number of aircraft movements, growing from 25,000 to over 40,000 movements, Whanganui Airport 06 348 9210 www.airwhanganui.co.nz Flying direct to destinations anywhere in New Zealand, when you wish. Call us Today 0800 643 937 | www.midwesthelicopters.co.nz Locally owned & operated. Proud to be part of your community. H E L I C O P T E R S • SPRAYING / LIFTING • GENERAL TRANSPORTATION • ENGINEERING • FERTILISER / SEEDING • FROST CONTROL • SPECIALISTS IN LIFTING PROUDLY NEW ZEALAND OWNED AND OPERATED Explore the unique ancestral cultures, environment, and way of life on the Chatham Islands with its own proud airline. From the ancient, weathered beauty of nature reserves that host some of New Zealand’s rarest wildlife, to the high red cliffs, white sand beaches, and clean clear waters, there’s a different view around every corner.
10 | REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Taranaki: Linepower Richard Loader ‘Family’ culture the key to success Linepower has fostered a strong company culture which has enabled further growth and diversification. to page 12 Your one-stop shop for tyres in New Plymouth. Servicing New Plymouth wide, there is no job too big or too small. We carry all major brands of tyres, including Bridgestone and Supercat, we also provide wheel alignment, puncture repairs and everything in between. In addition to tyres, we have a fully equipped mechanical workshop with two qualified mecahnics who can performWOF (warrant of fitness) as well as WOF and mechanical repairs. We specialise in Century batteries and have a range of stock on hand. With our handy central location, only a short walk to town, you can easily come in for service. Open seven days a week, we also offer after hours service and can answer to callouts. CORSON TYRES 160 Gill St, New Plymouth www.corsontyres.co.nz 06 758 6100 corsontyres.ltd@xtra.co.nz Culture — the way things are done around here — can make or break teams, teams within companies and entire companies. Culture is the heart and the soul of a business, and successful companies work hard nurturing, shaping and growing the culture within their organisation, to provide the right environment for high performing teams to do their best. New Plymouth based network service provider Linepower knows all about culture, and with team numbers growing from twelve to thirty-six within the last seven years, has made culture a key measure of success. The company’s General Manager Ray Meyer says Linepower has always enjoyed a good ‘family’ culture, but of course that is easier to foster and manage in small teams. “When you balloon as a result of customer demand it brings its benefits, but also its challenges and we learned very quickly that you couldn’t employ just anyone. “Over the last few years, we’ve worked hard getting buy-in from all staff and managers that if someone wants to join the team they have to share the same ‘family values’, get on with the team and actually add to that family culture.” Taking that approach has proven very successful for Linepower, and the company is now seeing the dividends pay off with how team members interact and support each other, enabling further growth and diversification. “Essentially, we offer a service to our customers, and without the people we only have a big shed, offices and lots of trucks — but nothing else. It’s the service that we need to provide and our people are the face of our company. “They are out there with the customers on a daily basis and we rely heavily on them doing the right thing, every single day. The team culture is the key to all of that.” Linepower was established 20 years ago as a subsidiary to AJ Greaves Electrical, primarily to provide a service to PowerCo, the asset owner of the electricity network in Taranaki and other parts of the North Island. In addition to providing maintenance and renewal services to PowerCo, Linepower ventured into customer-initiated works (CIW) on rural properties and the occasional residential subdivision. More recently, increased demand from PowerCo and an up-turn in new houses and subdivisions, along with new industries and businesses moving into the region, has seen Linepower evolve into a much larger business, undertaking major projects, and diversifying the services it provides. “The core of our business right from the start has been overhead and underground power supply,” says Ray. “But in the last couple of years we’ve diversified into a number of other related areas. One of those being design engineering. Behind every line that’s built there’s an engineering design aspect that goes in behind that to ensure safety. J.A.Russell Ltd is proud to support Linepower throughout the Taranaki region. The region’s economy can only be enhanced by companies like Linepower.
| 11 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Taranaki: Linepower Linepower was established 20 years ago primarily to provide a service to PowerCo, the asset owner of the electricity network in Taranaki and other parts of the North Island. Over the last thirty years, Taranaki-based underground locating specialist, Detect Services Ltd, has established an unrivalled reputation for its professional approach to the delivery of high-quality and vital subsurface locating throughout New Zealand. Detect Services was founded in 1992 by well-known Taranaki identity Graham Mist (Misty) who has amassed signi cant experience and expertise in the subsurface locating industry. Initially operating as a one-man business providing locating services for the electricity and gas industry in Taranaki, Graham evolved the business to offer a comprehensive range of underground detection services including water, bre, and telecommunications. Services also include Ground Penetrating RADAR (GPR), reinforcing and seismic surveys, GPS mapping and detection of other geological anomalies. Based in New Plymouth, Detect Services now employs a team of four quali ed and highly experienced technicians, who are supported by a team of of ce staff. Graham continues to be involved in the business on a regular basis, providing vision, direction and forty years of locating knowledge. While the majority of Detect Services’ work is focused within the Taranaki region, word of mouth reputation often sees team members engaged nationwide. “We now have a very diverse customer base,” says General Manager Andrew Kelly. “We service everything from the energy industry, the oil and pertrochemical industry, government agencies, a lot of work with civil engineers and consultants, local plumbing companies, engineering companies and of course we provide services to private home owners.” Through energy provider PowerCo, Detect Services relationship with Linepower Network Services goes back to the early days of the business. “They use us for a lot of their GPS work,” Andrew explains. “Linepower is contracted to Powerco, and once Linepower has installed underground power services we GPS that, and provide them with the data to be uploaded to Powerco’s Geographic Information System (GIS), so that anyone can go online and see where the assets are located.” The use top of the line technology and staying ahead of the game has always been key for Detect Services in its daily operations. While companies like Detect Services often y under the general public’s radar, the work that its specialist team does is vital because it protects the customers assets, the continuity of services and the health and safety of workers and the public. “Without those assets being located there are all sorts of potential hazards, resulting in disruption to the network on a daily basis and people getting seriously injured or killed if they were to damage an underground pipe or cable.” Richard Loader Name: Detect Serices City/Town: New Plymouth Phone Number: 027 555 1445 Website: www.detectservices.co.nz Email: andrew.kelly@DetectServices.co.nz DETECT SERVICES LTD
12 | Culture key to success Investing in its people is a major part of the Linepower culture. from page 10 Taranaki: Linepower REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT McCURDY TRUCKS PARTS / SERVICE / SALES / REPAIRS / FABRICATION 9 Hurlstone Drive, New Plymouth dieselsystems@xtra.co.nz Find us on Facebook - 06 7575027 DIESEL & TURBOCHARGER SERVICES 2004 LTD Taranaki's Leader in Diesel Fuel Injection Repairs and Diagnostics We have a strong customer service orientation and this, partnered with technical expertise and high quality workmanship, provides our customers with professional, timely and value for money repairs Fleet vehicle maintenance, WOF repairs and servicing of both petrol and diesel vehicles to keep your business moving forward Our staff are extensively trained in the latest diagnostic scope techniques for finding the proverbial ‘needle in a haystack’ • • • If your vehicle has a bad cough or an itch that needs scratching bring it to the Diesel Doctor! 06 751 5004 sales@iedliftingcentre.co.nz iedliftingcentre.co.nz Marine Products | Testing Services | Chain Blocks | Fibre Ropes | Web Slings | Wire Rope | Chains “So, we’ve invested in our own designer and software so that we can offer that service as well. The major diversification last year was moving into civil and traffic management areas, both of which have significant ties back to the network. “Our civil team covers everything from excavation through to directional drilling. These days, most services are underground and if you’re going underground, you need a civil team. Generally, those services are drilled in. The traffic management also flows on from that nicely as well.” In addition to PowerCo, which remains Line power’s primary customer, customers include private home owners, farmers, developers, builders, electricians and industrial customers. While Linepower operates first and foremost throughout Taranaki, its reputation for high quality workmanship is drawing it into other regions. “In the last five years we’ve extended out footprint out into the Wanganui/Manawatu area. That’s really about organic word of mouth growth. For instance, developers are saying how well we execute works for them in the local region, and want to get us into other regions that they operate.” Along with growth and diversification comes an expansion of skill sets and complementing a raft of linesmen with line mechanics tickets and an electrician with electrical inspector’s ticket, Linepower’s team of thirty-six now includes cable jointers specialising in underground cable terminations and joints, civil operators with directional drilling certification and excavation tickets, qualified traffic management staff. “We also have two young gentlemen, I will call them, who have been in the industry for over forty years. They’re outstanding in what they know, what they can offer us and have been a huge part of our success. Experience is very important to us.” Investing in its people is also part of Linepower culture, and the company regu06 758 3100 or 0800 31 00 31 www.utilityscan.co.nz | office@utilityscan.co.nz Underground Utility Survey Specialists larly supports and encourages those team members ready to take the next step in their careers, or who express an interest in furthering their knowledge. “We have a number of trainees involved here who are going through their certificates in their certain areas,” says Ray. “A couple of months ago I reached out to the local Gateway programme, which enables high school students to get some work experience in certain industries. For us, it’s very important to bring new blood into the business. We have a core experienced team and we must bring new staff through to learn and grow underneath those guys, who won’t be here forever. We want people who want to be here, who will help us in our quest to be a really good company and buy into what we’re trying to achieve. That’s a lot easier if we can inject from the bottom, bringing trainees in who we can train and shape into the Linepower way of doing things — our culture. Along with the passion and energy if youth, these young people will also bring an aptitude for technology, which is very valuable to our technology-based business.” This month Linepower is celebrating two decades in business, and Ray says that whanau/family feel, makes it more than just another company. It is the place to work, not a place to work. “Every decision I make personally, and every decision the company makes is done with that in mind. The culture is huge here and everyone contributes to that, and what the picture of Linepower looks like. “The owners of the business are not afraid to invest in new and innovative plant and technology and that’s the envy of many local businesses. But I think that just being genuinely good people and looking after people also goes a long way — that coupled with the people and businesses that we work alongside. “They are a big part of how we do business and many of them have the same ethos as us around being local reputable companies with mutual respect for each other, and looking after the people.”
There are some key reasons why Primo’s Matt Harrison uses Linepower when he needs help powering up his company’s broadband network. “Linepower can easily do the task of getting power where we need it, but we use Linepower because like us, they support Taranaki and I respect that,” Matt says. “Being locally owned and operated is something important to both businesses, as is our community, its people and giving back to that community where we can. “We are both companies that share the ethos of investing in our people and the places we live in. It helps make Taranaki a better place, and you can’t put a dollar value on that.” Primo most recently used Linepower to run mains power to its remote - and hilly - Boarshead site on the Kaitake Ranges on Coastal Taranaki. It is part of the government’s Rural Capacity Upgrade program to get broadband to as many rural people as possible. “Linepower have been a vital part of the project getting the power from the end of Upper Weld Rd to our site and making it go live,” Matt says. “We’ve normally used a mix of solar power and generators to run the site, and this upgrade will mean it can pump out data all the time without us having concerns about the power draw during those cloudy days and long winters.” He says it was a tough job and Linepower’s people were pros at making it happen. “We couldn’t have asked for a better crew. They were there in all weather, did exactly what needed to be done and made sure it was a quality job, keeping the landowners happy along the way too!” Once the final stage of the project is completed (with fibre) later this year Primo can send a lot more data from its towers to its customers right around the coast. “Having fibre running to the site will give us more than 10 times the capacity than we’ve got now and that will give Coastal people better quality internet. Matt Harrison says the RCU funding is being spent wisely to give as many rural people as possible ongoing access to speedy internet, and it is important that other companies contracting to the project have the same commitment to our region. “Ray Meyer (Linepower’s general manager) knows that when the community’s doing well, we all do better. “And it doesn’t hurt that Linepower are a customer of Primo’s as well! Reciprocal business speaks volumes when you’re both locally owned and operated. “We might even try and sign them up for our new Primo Mobile phone service when we launch that out to the public in January! “But I do want to thank Ray and his team for their professionalism, their willingness to get the job done and to a deadline, with no fuss. “They’re one of the companies helping Taranaki be like no other.” LINEPOWER GIVES PRIMO’S NETWORK A BIG BOOST
14 | Taranaki: Taranaki Radiology REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Sue Russell Patient care underpins practice’s work Dr Alina Leigh, one of three directors at Taranaki Radiology. “We are all over the place working from six locations and we love it.” There’s a theme that comes through the conversation with Dr Alina Leigh, one of three directors at Taranaki Radiology, and that is simply that placing care of patients and care of staff at the top of the priorities is pivotal to the practice’s culture. Alina, along with Drs Dana Tipene-Hook and Maren Krueger, lead a team of radiologists, medical imaging technicians, sonographers, radiology assistants, admin and support staff and the one thing they all have in common is a deep commitment to fully live the word ‘care’. “It’s vital that, as a practice we reflect our shared values of caring for our patients throughout their time with us and that we also look after each other. I consider everyone here to be part of our family and those family values are what guide us in our busy day to day work,” Alina explains. And ‘dynamic’ doesn’t really do justice to how busy the practice is, working from a number of locations in New Plymouth and surrounds. “We are all over the place working from six locations and we love it. It means we can reach people better. I’m very proud of the team who work with such professionalism day in day out. It’s what the success of our practice has been built on without a doubt.” The practice established in 2016, having split from a joint venture with Taranaki Hospital based at Fulford Clinic. When that restructuring took place Alina, Dana and Maren seized the opportunity to buy Magnet House in Vivian Street, New Plymouth. It’s in this gracious home that the 3T MRI scanner is situated. The scanner, one of only a few in the country was a big financial commitment but one the directors chose, in order to get the best in the world imaging technology on offer. At Fulford Clinic, Mammography, Ultrasound and CT Scanning services are provided. Staff also conduct X-Ray clinics at Medicross, Phoenix Doctors and Stratford Health Centre. An on-call x-ray service is provided at weekends and public holidays for Medicross Urgent Care patients. Intraoperative imaging is provided at Southern Cross Hospital. Alina says that another reason the practice has evolved from strength to strength is the flexibility and wide skill-set of the staff, with everyone engaged having at least two strings to their bow. “It means if we’re short somewhere, for whatever reasons, we have another team member who can step in. “We’re also a very broad group in terms of ethnicity, cultural background and personality types which I think is a strength.” She’s especially proud of the fact that staff have wanted to stay in the practice, only leaving if they’re moving out of the region or overseas. Taranaki Radiology also assists those training in the profession to gain experience by working with a trained professional. Asked why they chose the 3 Tesla MRI equipment Alina says it really shone above other options in terms of providing ‘exquisite’ prostate imaging. It’s from humble beginnings that Alina progressed through schooling to undertake her basic medical, followed by specialist radiology trainings – a pathway straddling more than a decade. “I realised that I liked looking at X-Rays and could see the detail in them well. “I also was attracted to radiology because the disciplines straddle a patients whole life, from foetus to the elderly and I like that engagement.” Celebrating the fact that running a private practice offers a freedom to ‘steer your own ship’ more than in the public context, is another reason Alina and fellow directors chose to establish Taranaki Radiology. “It’s quite unusual to have a practice where all the directors are female too. “I think women engage in different ways in leadership roles and that culture permeates through the whole practice.” Hanging on her office wall is a plaque carrying words from author, environmentalist and conservationist, Douglas Adams, that reads: ‘To give real service you must add something that cannot be bought or measured with money and that is sincerity and integrity’. “I like those words, they carry a lot of meaning to me and I believe they are true.” And giving back to the community is not overlooked either, with the annual meeting of the directors deciding which charities they will support. “It’s our way of contributing to the health, well-being and development of this wonderful region.” If there is one final message Alina would like to give, it’s this. “Ladies, please check your breasts and have yearly screening mammograms from age 40. Gentlemen, please get your prostate and PSA level checked with your GP.”
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