Business North December 2023

Volume 22 | Issue 7 | December 2023 www.waterfordpress.co.nz Hitting the sweet spot Ethical lender Money Sweetspot is winning praise and recognition for its empathy-driven approach to financial services. T T Page 03 businessnorth

2 | Contents businessnorth 36| Top effort Hamilton’s Connell Contractors excelled on the complex and challenging Poutu Intake and Tunnel Repair project. 50| Team first Waikato’s Skipps Logging has introduced a strong focus on staff well-being into its team culture. 116| Winning brew Mixing “old world” brewing methods and adding a Kiwi twist proved a winning formula for Northland’s 8 Wired Brewery. 50 116 36 #businessnorth #yourstory www.waterfordpress.co.nz   Money Sweetspot ��03 Tasman Holiday Parks ��04 EC Attwood Ltd ��06 Hayes International ��08 SI Lodec ��09 Whakatane District Council ��10 Whakatane Mill �� 11 Neuflow Projects �� 13 Fonterra - Maungaturoto �� 14 Milligans Food Group �� 15 Mitre 10 NZ Silverdale �� 16 PFI & Haydn & Rollett ��18 Du Val Group ��21 JWL Investments ��22 Kingston Group ��24 The Kilns ��26 DG Capital ��28 Austen Projects ��29 Letts Construction ��30 C2 Design ��34 Connell Contractors ��36 Fulton Hogan - Auckland ��38 Bowling Infrastructure Group ��42 Oxcon CLL ��43 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 These conditions are prescribed for the sake of understanding between the Company and its clients. 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MANAGING DIRECTOR James Lynch james@waterfordpress.co.nz CO-MANAGING PARTNER Chris Pearce chris.pearce@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, Richard Loader, Kim Newth, Sue Russell, Karen Phelps, Rosa Watson, Virginia Wright RESEARCH & MARKETING James Anderson, Sam Dart, Chris Graves, Megan Hawkins, Annie Patrick, Chris Pearce, Danielle Percival, Adam Shirra, Leo Smith, 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 Alissa Crosby, Ann-Marie Frentz, Josie Villa OFFICE AND ACCOUNTS Helen Bourne accounts@waterfordpress.co.nz Jill Holland reception@waterfordpress.co.nz Lyn Barlow lyn@waterfordpress.co.nz J&R Contracting ��44 Horizon Surveying & LandDevelopment ��45 Glasshouse Property Management ��46 Focus on Property ��47 Arcwell Engineering ��48 Skipps Logging ��50 Bourneville Furniture Group ��53 LAD Architecture ��54 Arkhe Architecture ��58 AZero Essential Architecture ��59 Archiland Architecture ��60 JMAC Architecture �� 61 Smith Architects ��62 AJ Gray Building Ltd ��65 Chris Burns Construction ��66 Gudsell Builders ��68 Glen Armstrong Builders ��69 FV Design and Build ��70 Taylor Construction ��72 Stroud Homes - Bay of Plenty ��74 Vaughan Wilson Builders ��75 Iconic Construction ��76 Concpt Construction ��77 Mike Greer Homes Silverdale ��78 PlatinumHomes Tauranga&BOP �� 80 David ReidHomes North Shore&West ��82 Sentinel Homes AucklandNorth/West ��86 Cambridge Homes North Waikato ��87 Breckon Builders ��88 BUCO Building and Construction ��89 Oliver Tuck Construction ��90 Mitchell Construction ��92 Compac Homes ��94 Ze Build ��96 Rob May Builders ��98 Cassa Homes ��101 Good Built Homes ��102 Steez Construction ��103 Heart and Soul Tiny Homes ��104 NZ Builders ��105 ASAP Contracting ��106 Turton Builders ��108 NPM Construction ��109 Auckland Radiation Oncology �� 110 Hillcrest High �� 112 Kamo High School �� 114 8 Wired Brewery �� 116

| 3 “We’re finding that many people are highly engaged and are watching all of our financial education content. They appreciate our focus on listening and not judging them for being in debt.” Sasha Lockley BUSINESS Money Sweetspot T T Kim Newth Accolades for big hearted lender In its first year, ethical lender Money Sweetspot has made a big impact for the better by providing financial reset and debt consolidation services designed to empower people to take charge of their finances, reduce debt and get on with life. The social lender is winning praise and recognition is for its empathy-driven approach, having picked up the Social Impactor Award at the 2023 Sustainable Business Network Awards. Money Sweetspot CEO Sasha Lockley, who co-founded the company with credit risk specialist Meurig (Rig) Chapman, was named Social Entrepreneur of the Year in the Global Entrepreneurship Network New Zealand Awards 2023. Adding to the accolades, Money Sweetspot was a finalist in the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards 2023 (Central Region) for Best Emerging Business and Excellence in Innovation. Being accepted into the Edmund Hillary Fellowship contributed to Sasha’s life changing decision to leave a well-paying executive role in favour of launching this social lending enterprise as a way to address a negative culture of judgment around indebtedness in the financial sector. “It was the start of a journey to acknowledge that we need to do better and bring people back to the centre of financial services,” says Sasha. “We need to recognise that people’s lives are unpredictable. “Bad things can happen but rather than punishing people for that by saddling them with spiralling debt, we need to help New Zealanders who are trying to get out of debt.” Nearly 450 people across New Zealand have embarked on a financial reset journey with Money Sweetspot, which provides debt consolidation loans at much lower interest rates than those prevailing in the open market and without any of the silly penalty fees. By paying on time, avoiding further debt and learning more about how debt works, Money Sweetspot customers can earn points enabling them to pay off debt faster or put money into savings. Supporting Money Sweetspot’s social impact mahi are charitable equity investors - the Tindall Foundation, the Christian Savings Bank and Anglican Care Waiapu – along with various financial mentors and community group partners. “As well, the BNZ has provided $10 million loan capital that we can lend to customers, and we are now in the process of further diversifying that funding pool with the goal of having another $25m to loan by March 2024.” “We are one of the first finance companies in the world to link financial education with the repayment of debt and creation of savings. “We’re finding that many people are highly engaged and are watching all of our financial Money Sweetspot picked up the Social Impactor Award at the 2023 Sustainable Business Network Awards: centre, Meurig Chapman, cofounder; and left, Leticia New, lending and customer specialist. education content. They appreciate our focus on listening and not judging them for being in debt.” By staying the course with their own financial reset and their own financial well-being, they can also donate to a cause they care about every three months, [through The Good Registry]. “Customers win because they move on from debt. Investors win because they still get fair social and financial returns. “Communities win through the donations our customers make. Lenders who prefer to keep their customers don’t win … but I’m absolutely fine with that! “Our goal in 2024 is to reach as many New Zealanders as we can that need us and continue building our marketplace presence and influence.”

4 | REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Tasman Holiday Parks T T Richard Loader A one-stop beachfront experience Picture perfect: Tasman Holiday Parks’ Papamoa facility is located right on the spectacular beachfront. When it comes to great beach holiday destinations, with its white sands and turquoise waters, few spots in Aotearoa would beat Papamoa, and Tasman Holiday Parks has a spot right on the beachfront just for you. Just a short distance from Mount Maunganui in the sunny Bay of Plenty, Tasman Holiday Parks’ Papamoa facility has a broad range of accommodation types to match all budgets and preferences, from budget friendly cabins right up to premium villas. “We cater for families with kids, empty nesters, corporates and businesses,” says Tasman Holiday Parks’ General Manager David Aflallo. “We have a conference facility right in the park so we’re a one-stop-shop beachfront experience. Soon we will have a new heated swimming pool that will add a whole new layer to the guest experience.” The new pool is part of three new development projects at Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach that will be completed in time for the start of the high season. Eight new two-bedroom beachfront villas were completed in June this year. Finished to a very high standard, the villas have been designed with families in mind which includes a private BBQ area with a large deck that faces Papamoa Beach with stunning views. Currently under construction is eight poolside units, each facing the swimming pool itself and each well appointed. “There are six two-bedroom family units and two one-bedroom studios, designed more for couples and singles travelling,” says David. “Each unit has a deck opening to the swimming pool, and again with its own BBQ.” The heated 25 metre swimming pool, accessed by guests by gate code, offers a family friendly experience, enabling laps for the energetic, a shallow end for smaller kids, and accessibility facilities. “The surroundings are very relaxing and inviting with a lot of thought put into lighting so that it looks absolutely amazing in the evening. “We worked closely with the local iwi, Nga Putiki, on the poolside design to help tell the story of Papamoa, and we have used native plantings, telling the story about how those plantings were used historically by Māori. “We worked with the iwi throughout the holiday park’s journey to ensure their story is reflected throughout. I think that it is important for us to embrace that. We’ve recently replaced all the signage so that it is now in te reo Māori as well as English.” Both the poolside units and the pool are on track to be completed by early December, in time for the holiday park’s high season. “A key driver for these three projects was the park’s great location and the need to provide additional accommodation to meet the demand,” explains David. “We listened to our customers to understand what their wants and needs were. The heated swimming pool was also a response to the low season. We have a really beautiful beach, but we wanted to enhance the parks appeal as a year-round destination.” Reflecting on what has gone very well, David acknowledges that the contractors have done an amazing job, working around the clock to get the work completed. “The goal was always to open the new facilities in time for the high season. So, we had a very tight timeline to start with and we had to allow for wet weather. “AHS Group were contracted to build the poolside units as well as the beachfront villas, while Watts & Hughes were engaged to build the heated swimming pool. The designer was Steven Chambers from Stufkens + Chambers Architects, who have been involved in the master planning of the holiday park, and knew what we were looking to achieve.” Tasman Holiday Parks’ Papamoa facility has a broad range of accommodation types to match all budgets and preferences, from budget friendly cabins right up to premium villas.

| 5 Papamoa Premium Beachfront Villa, BOP “AHS Group has been an invaluable partner in our major projects, including the construction of new units at THP and various refurbishing endeavours. Their commitment to del ivering on time and within budget has made our col laboration exceptional ly smooth. It's truly great working with them.” David, General Manager ahsgroup.co.nz | 0800 888 785 | admin@ahsgroup.co.nz

6 | EC Attwood Ltd T/A Attwoods Packaging T T Kim Newth Packaging experts celebrate 70 years Attwood’s head office and main distribution centre is in East Tamaki, servicing customers across the Auckland region and beyond, from Pōkeno to Kaitaia. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Edward (“Eddie”) Charles Attwood, who founded the company in Auckland in 1953, once famously said, “Customers are not an interruption to our work, they are the purpose of it.” Seventy years on, this family-owned packaging supply specialist remains true to their founder’s ethos, providing the best possible customer service. “Attwood’s turned 70 in September 2023; it is a significant milestone and one that we are proud to have marked with our team,” observes Bruce Chapman, Attwood’s Operations Manager. “Being family-owned is our point of difference and it continues to fuel our passion for providing tailored packaging solutions that work for business.” Strong relationships are important to Attwood’s, which works closely day-to-day with their customers as well as with industry partners. The major carriers of freight are independent family-owned operators in Auckland and Hamilton and these people are a valued extension to the business. Today, this thriving business remains in 100% family ownership. Following Eddie’s passing in 2005, his eldest son Milton took up the reins. In turn, following Milton’s retirement “Being family-owned is our point of difference and it continues to fuel our passion for providing tailored packaging solutions that work for business.” in 2019, the CEO role passed jointly to Eddie’s grandson Carl Attwood and then National Sales Manager John Isemonger. Through successive years, Attwood’s has built not only a leading reputation for friendly, efficient service but also a comprehensive product range that caters to businesses large and small across New Zealand. Serving as much more than a product stockist, Attwood’s is a proactive packaging partner and works closely, one-on-one, with account customers to provide customised solutions, anticipating packaging needs and providing customised performance reports. “We have grown the company around our clients and our stock caters to their needs. Our team aims to be as helpful to them as possible.” Since 1953, Attwood’s has grown from a one-man operation to a team of around 50 staff, employed out of branches in Auckland (East Tamaki), Hamilton, Mt Maunganui and Christchurch. Attwood’s head office and main distribution centre is in East Tamaki, servicing customers across the Auckland region and beyond, from Pōkeno to Kaitaia. It is ably supported by another large custom-designed distribution centre in Hamilton that efficiently covers the Waikato and Bay of Plenty. This 3000sqm distribution centre, which opened in Hamilton in 2019, is an efficient, user-friendly facility that features an automated picking order system, modern internal warehouse and specialist inhouse computer systems. The Hamilton branch is coming up to 60 years of supplying the needs of the Waikato and beyond. The company’s commitment to innovation with new technologies powerfully complements their extensive track record in the market and their unwavering dedication to personal customer service. Attwood’s extensive product range is continually updated to meet changing needs. It includes bags and liners; film and pallet wrap; food service products; hygiene and cleaning products; office supplies; protective packaging; retail packaging; safety products such as hi-vis clothing and disposable gloves and masks; ties, strapping and ropes, twines and tapes, packaging labels and adhesives. Bruce notes that sales reports show that their products are well-supported across the whole range. Exclusive to Attwood’s is the AIRmove® void fill system that eliminates the need to purchase, transport and store bulky rolls of bubble wrap or bags of loose fill; it makes professional strength product and offers product on demand. “We have seen good uptake of these machines – they really help businesses to improve their packaging efficiency. Paper Void Fill is really gaining momentum as customers are aware of their own environmental impact.” In today’s sustainability conscious market, Attwood’s is fast adapting to support those customers seeking eco-friendly ways to reduce waste. “We are growing our range of sustainable products all the time, underpinned by a commitment to the 3Rs – Recycle, Reuse and Reduce.” As they embark on their next 70 years, Attwood’s, “The Packaging People”, are well-positioned as market leaders in a competitive environment, providing quality, relevant products and a service that many would describe as second to none. www.integratedpackaging.co.nz | 09 274 4499 | 5 Sir William Ave, East Tamaki, Auckland + Crop Packaging Products + Plain Films + Industrial Stretch Films + Pallet Shrink Film + PVC Food Films + Stretch Hoods + Bundle Shrink + Plain & Printed Bags Proudly supporting Attwoods Packaging

| 7 EC Attwood Ltd T/A Attwoods Packaging Attwood’s is a proactive packaging partner and works closely, one-on-one, with account customers to provide customised solutions. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT For over twenty years, we have been supplying innovative Packaging Solutions to Industrial, Retail and Food service markets. Through our national network of New Zealand’s leading distributors, we continue to innovate and respond to the challenges of industry. Industrial • Consumer • Food Service Proudly supporting Attwoods Packaging Polycell International Ltd: Proud Supporters of Attwoods Packaging www.polycell.co.nz

8 | Rotorua Business Awards - Hayes International Haye’s keeping on rolling Hayes International has a reputation as one of the world’s top manufacturers of Rollformers and Rollforming equipment. T TAnge Davidson REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Hayes International has been manufacturing Rollformers for the metal building industry for over 60 years. Based in Rotorua but with predominantly overseas clientele, Hayes International has a reputation as one of the world’s top manufacturers of Rollformers and Rollforming equipment. The company was recently recognised as an Employer of the Year at the 2023 Tompkins Wake Rotorua Business Awards for its outstanding investment in its staff. The annual awards delivered through Rotorua Business Chamber celebrate innovation and creativity in the business sector. Managing Director Nick Looijen says the company were finalists in two categories and were awarded for their employee schemes which cover pay equity through to wellbeing. “We’ve been working really hard over the last six years to bring in more employee benefits and more flexible working hours. We try to bring all wages up to equal or better than the market and have focused on looking after our employees through Health and Safety and wellbeing initiatives,” says Nick. “We had a health and trauma insurance scheme in place which wasn’t being used, so we closed this and gave employees $500 each to go towards their medical costs and wellbeing. We really encourage them to spend the money on whatever contributes to their wellbeing away from the workplace, it could be a new pair of walking shoes, a box of golf balls or a day spa. We also have fully funded physio visits on site.” The company actively promotes community by providing monthly morning teas and quarterly staff lunches along with an early Friday finish. Staff have access to a New Zealand wide group buying scheme and a fuel card for discounted fuel and engage in fundraising for mental health initiatives and selected charities. There is also plenty of investment into staff training. “We are presently recruiting overseas for specialised staff as it’s very difficult to find experienced trade staff, experienced mechanical design and rolltool engineers in New Zealand. Out of our 87 employees, roughly 25 % of the workforce are from overseas,” he says. Hayes International is one of only three Rollforming companies in New Zealand and is manufacturing roll forming equipment for roofing iron, corrugated iron, industrial steel purlins and steel framing machines for housing. Everything is manufactured in house from the design and electrical and tool engineering, through to the machinists, painters, service technicians, outward goods team, IT, finance and HR. “Ninety eight percent of our machinery is exported with Australia and America our biggest markets right now, and our machinery is in 89 countries. The biggest demand from the Australian market is for corrugate and five rib panel roofing products while America is predominantly Ag and R panel for barns,” says Nick. For all your sprocket, chain & engineering requirements Proudly supporting Hayes International sales@pmlnz.com LaserSpeed celebrates Hayes International on their remarkable 50th Anniversary. We wish them ongoing success and look forward to a continued and prosperous relationship. Precision Laser Cutting Press Brake Folding 07 282 7140 www.laserspeed.co.nz 130 Maleme St, Tauranga

| 9 Rotorua Business Awards - SI Lodec Leaders in weighing T T Hugh de Lacy SI Lodec is regarded as the country’s leading supplier of electronic weighing systems. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Helping forestry truckers to adhere to legal weight load requirements was what prompted Ian Patchell to set up his company, SI Lodec, in 1995. The company, which won the Innovation and Technology award at the 2023 Tompkins Wake Rotorua Business Awards, markets a wide range of imported electronic weighing technology. The range now includes weighbridges, but in the early days it was the company’s on-board weighing systems that Ian says endeared themselves to forestry truckers in particular. “Logs vary in size and weight and the operators had to guess the log weight,” Ian says. “By having an on-board weigh system the operators knew exactly what size the last log or two needed to be for the load to stay under the legal limits. “Also, logs carry water in their bark, and when trucks were loaded dry in the bush and it rained between there and the highway, a load could weigh up to a tonne heavier.” Ian formed SI Lodec NZ Ltd in 1995 and his on-board scales met an eager market from truckers. Typically a client commissioning a new truck and trailer unit today will bring SI Lodec aboard to collaborate with the manufacturer, integrating the wiring and fittings into the construction phase. “Some manufacturers even install our product independently,” Ian says. Where an existing truck is due for a retrofit, the process can be organised to minimise downtime, even to the point of weekend installations. With premises in Rotorua and Christchurch, allowing it to supply and service both islands, SI Lodec has its own dedicated in-house research-and-development division that conceives, tests and perfects solutions to meet out-of-the-ordinary requirements for a diverse range of truck and weighbridge configurations. This extends to customised load-cells and systems for unusual applications. The company’s big range of weighbridges boasts standard dimensions from 6m to 36m, and with a capacity of up to 80 tonnes, though that can be raised much higher if necessary. The weighbridges feature modular removeable panels and state-of-the-art welding techniques. The designs ensure immense strength, wear resistance and perfect panel alignment, with each panel crafted from 6mm U-shaped beams, crowned with an 8mm checker plate to ensure optimal vehicle traction. The weighbridges can be seamlessly integrated atop existing hard surfaces, or can be pit-mounted, whichever suits the application. SI Lodec customises its electronic components so the client can pick just the features that suit their immediate needs, while retaining the flexibility to incorporate additional features as the further need arises. All the weighbridges are equipped with IP68-rated hermetically sealed stainless steel load cells, allowing the production of the market’s lowest-profile designs, and all the electronics are backed up by local round-theclock support throughout New Zealand. The company is regarded as the country’s acknowledged leading supplier of electronic weighing systems with an expansive range of options that can be tailored to any particular requirements. “Since our foundation we’ve been dedicated to curating and producing products precisely designed to meet the unique demands of our highly diversified customer base,” Ian says. “We assembled a collection of elite systems and avant-garde technologies procured from around the world, and backed up by our unparalleled knowledge and commitment to customer satisfaction. “To our knowledge we’re the only weigh systems company in New Zealand with a full-time R&D technician on our roster, and he’s been instrumental in forging our SiRITS wireless remote application, and setting new standards of advancement in weighbridge electronics design.” PROUD SUPPORTERS OF SI LODEC NZ LTD PH: 03 768 0218 DARREN: 021 310 453 EMAIL: ADMIN@MBDCONTRACTING.CO.NZ MBD CONTRACTING LTD - 50 ARNEY STREET, PO BOX 114, GREYMOUTH, 7840 MBD is proud to support SI Lodec

10 | Whakatane District Council: Alaska Construction T T Richard Loader Staff input driver in refurbishment Council Chambers and governance areas were relocated to the ground floor. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT In July this year, staff at Whakatane District Council moved into their refurbished air-conditioned office building, and a brandnew style of working together. The origins of the project commenced in 2017 when a need to seismically strengthen and air-condition the two storey Civic Centre was identified. Most parts of the building were barren of air-conditioning, and were sweltering in the summer, while freezing in the winter. During the planning phase, the opportunity was taken to re-evaluate how the building was used by the people who work within it, and the wider community. The decision was made to relocate the Council Chambers and governance areas from the first floor to the ground floor, effectively improving the community’s access to democracy, while also creating community spaces. With space freed up on the first floor, consideration was then given to future proofing the working environment and how space could be more effectively used, with staff brought into the planning process. Staff engagement in the project was a massive driver, particularly in the design layout and functionality of the building, explains Council Organisational Change Manager Michelle Trudgen. “Prior to refurbishment, we were a very traditional open plan layout, with one hundred and eighty desks but a study showed that desk occupancy was only 43%. It also felt as though the building was bursting at the seams and while there were meeting rooms there were no collaboration spaces.” The refurbished building now boasts an ‘Our Space’ environment where staff work in neighbourhoods rather than assigned desks. Staff were also involved in developing etiquettes for how they work. “We have incorporated twenty-one meeting rooms, eighteen collaboration spaces, focus rooms, chat rooms, as well as wellness rooms. So, it’s the same footprint but a lot of space that’s really flexible and allows for a hybrid way of working. It feels infinitely more spacious than it did previously, and importantly staff feel it’s a really beautiful and comfortable place to work. There is a really strong cultural narrative running through the building, and it was really important that the whole district felt a sense of place and connection with the building. Jamie Boynton is a local Māori artist engaged to create the cultural narrative.” Alongside the paradigm-shift in how people work and interact, is the installation of an efficient air-conditioning system and a number of energy-saving initiatives. “We were very conscious of ensuring the budget was spent in places where there was most value. Double glazing was retrofitted into the existing window frames and that has provided great thermal efficiency. All lighting was replaced with energy efficient LEDs, and as much as possible we’ve used ‘green’ materials. For example, the Autex Acoustics system has been made from recycled materials, and it looks amazing too. We have also looked to the future by allowing for solar roof panels to be installed at a later date.” From the seismic strengthening perspective, 314 catcher brackets were custom manufactured and fitted underneath the first-floor beams, so that in the event of a significant earthquake if any of the beams failed they would be caught by the catcher brackets, preventing a collapse of the building. A key player in the project was Alaska Construction Interiors who Michelle says has been part of the project journey from the early design stages. “They did a fantastic job of keeping the project on track and completed within the timeframe and on budget, which given the construction environment was pretty unheard Proudly Supporting Whakatane District Council Building your Vision, Together 027 454 8302 | whitebuildersmt@gmail.com | www.whitebuildersmt.co.nz Call us on 07 571 1114 today. carpet, f loors &more Cnr 11th Ave & Cameron Rd, Tauranga www.theflooringroom.co.nz Your COMMERCIAL FLOORING SPECIALISTS

| 11 Whakatane District Council The refurbished building now boasts an ‘Our Space’ environment where staff work in neighbourhoods rather than assigned desks T T to page 12 Mill upgrade creates additional capacity REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Whakatane Mill T T Richard Loader Following a major and successful end-toend upgrade of existing machinery and plant at Whakatane Mill, production of folding box board (FBB) was resumed at commercial volumes in October this year. “This has been a very exciting upgrade,” says Mill CEO Ron Hooper. “It is good for New Zealand, good for the industry, good for Whakatane and, importantly, it is good for the environment. It has been a successful upgrade and we are delighted to have the additional capacity. We are looking forward to serving the local and international packaging industry more than we have been able to up till now.” The upgrade project is about two years in the making in terms of planning, engineering studies, procurement and delivery and installation of the capital equipment. The mill was closed for production during the months of July and August while the work was carried out. Whakatane Mill has been part of Whakatane’s landscape since 1939, and now employs a team of 186 staff. It is the largest commercial employer in Whakatane and a significant contributor to the local economy. The mill produces folding box board, the board the consumer sees in the form of food packaging such as cereal boxes or beverage boxes. The current machinery was installed in 2004, and had not been upgraded for 19 years. Ron says the upgrade was driven by a need to create additional capacity, and the upgrade will deliver an extra 35% capacity, which equates to an additional 50,000 tonnes of output per annum. Additional project drivers were to make the mill more efficient, more competitive in global markets and improve the mill’s environmental footprint, explains Ron. “What we’ve done is make an end-to-end upgrade, which includes the groundwood plant where pulp is created from local radiata pine,” he says. of. The project also had a very strong focus on community investment, and there were twelve local companies involved with $4.2m going directly to the local trades. “Where we couldn’t get specialist trades locally, there was still a community benefit through accommodation nights.” PROVIDING HIGH QUALITY STEEL REINFORCING ACROSS THE BAY OF PLENTY Phone: (027) 449 7744 Email: unlimitedsrc@outlook.co.nz Get in touch with us and let us know your specific project needs! We offer: Precision Machining | Welding & Fabrication Portable Line Boring | Fitting & Maintenance info@rossengineering.co.nz | www.rossengineering.co.nz P 07 308 4374 E daveypainters@xtra.co.nz W www.daveypainters.co.nz A 6 Gateway West Whakatane  painting  spray painting  texturing  wallpapering  waterproofing systems  roofing restoration  chemical cleaning  tanking systems www.aquaheat.nz Aquaheat New Zealand takes pride in its pivotal role in the construction of the state-of-the-art Whakatane Council Building. Our team spearheaded the HVAC/Mechanical, Plumbing, and Drainage works with unparalleled expertise, collaborating seamlessly for the head contractor, Alaska.

12 | Latest tech, machinery Environmental benefits from the mill upgrade include reduced water usage from the Whakatane River and reduction in energy emissions. T T from page 11 Whakatane Mill REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT “The upgrade includes a brand new press, a brand new film sizer, a heat and recovery upgrade, a high speed winder and fully automated wrapping line. The new equipment is designed to dry the board faster and more efficiently, reducing cost and allows us to speed up the machine and create the additional 50,000 tonnes of capacity.” With a total project investment of around $100million, the machinery and technology is all state-of-the-art that has been mainly sourced from Europe, and designed to make Whakatane Mill more competitive while also more environmentally friendly. “In our groundwood plant we will use significantly less electricity per tonne of pulp. The FBB machine will use thirty percent less gas per tonne of board made, and we are using less water as water is now recirculated in the manufacturing process. We certainly believe there is an environmental benefit in terms of reduced water usage from the Whakatane River and the reduction in energy emissions that we release into the environment.” Ron says a large proportion of the project investment was spent within New Zealand either with local suppliers of capital equipment, or contractors helping with the installation. “At one stage during the mill closure we had over 400 external contractors on site, helping to put the machine together. So, there has been tremendous benefit in terms of the local engineering and associated machinery industries. “This is a very big project by any body’s standards. There is also value created for food and beverage brand owners by having another 50,000 tonnes of FBB capacity available to the New Zealand, and Australian market.” While the project has resulted in a reassignment of some roles, Ron says when the mill approaches full volume some additional jobs will be created. Whakatane Mill is owned by private consortium who are industry experts within the manufacture of FBB. “They have owned the business for the last two and a half years and it is going very well.” HYDRAULIC SERVICES HOSE AND FITTINGS MECHANICAL & PRECISION ENGINEERING CONTROLS AND AUTOMATION AUCKLAND | BAY OF PLENTY | WHANGAREI Freephone 0800 255 525 IMG is a New Zealand based industrial specialist providing maintenance, capital projects, fabrication and specialist services to leading manufacturing, commercial, industrial and utility providers. enquiries@img.co.nz 0800 182 222 Engineering Excellence In New Zealand Industry Fabrication | Installation of Process & Services Piping Equipment Erection & Mounting | Plant & Equipment Relocation | Craneage, Rigging & Scaffolding 26 Fifteenth Avenue, Tauranga +64 21 084 71162 jacob@mpfengineering.com W www.mpfengineering.com

| 13 T T Sue Russell Bumper year for Hamilton business Neuflow Projects recently completed a massive upgrade of the entry to Hamilton Zoo, Neuflow Projects REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT It’s been a bit of a whirlwind journey for Adam Donaldson, after establishing project management works consultancy Neuflow Projects just four years ago. Growing from the start-up with only Adam, now a team of eight reflects how demand has grown for the services and expertise the business offers. Based now in the Hamilton Airport business precinct, in what is a growing busy industrial/ commercial hub, Adam says collectively the team he has on board have over 20 years experience and can see projects through from planning, design, procurement, project management and commissioning. This year has been a bit of a bumper one in other respects, as the good work and achievements to date have been recognised within the wider Waikato business sector in the form of being named a finalist in the 2023 Waikato Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, in the micro-business category. “We didn’t take out the final in our category unfortunately but we had a wonderful evening. “It was great for the team to be part of this event and reflect on the magnificent acheivements we have made as a team over the last couple of years.” says Adam. And growing a business is as much about seeing shifts in where future business may come from as it is about seizing current opportunities as Adam explains. “When we initially set up it was to concentrate on delivery of 3-waters projects, and working on local government contracts, however we’re looking more strategically now at other sectors to work in and the sustainability and energy sector has sprung up as a very good direction for us to move into.” Neuflow Projects was responsible for delivering over $120million worth of projects for local councils most notably with Hamilton City Council, who have recently completed a massive upgrade of the entry to Hamilton Zoo, connecting it easily to expanded car-parking and the 60ha Waiwhakareke National Heritage Park. Welcoming visitors to the park is an imposing three storey-high steel viewing platform, enabling viewers to see all over the park and through to Hamilton beyond. Other marque projects the team have delivered are the Waikato River Works which “We have strategy sessions to cement how to grow to the next tier which is 15 project managers. I can’t recommend highly enough how valuable this programme has been for me and the business....” involved the revetment wall and city jetty at Grantham Street, and the large capacity upgrades of the sole water and wastewater treatment plants in Hamilton. With project management and engineering qualifications Adam says he is able to provide a wrap-around service to clients, understanding what a project physically demands and how best to deliver it on time and to budget. He says the whole team carries a sense of pride when projects are delivered as they know the positive impact these will have both now and for many generations to come. Asked how he grew the team Adam says the first three staff approached him, having heard of the exciting projects the business was engaging in. “I think one of the best ways to describe us is that we’re focused on provided quality and value and are incredibly innovative in our approach. “We look at better ways to deliver projects and we’ve very much got our head in the future in terms of the types of work we want to get involved in as we grow.” Adam’s got a clear message to anyone starting out in business – ‘Seek the support of a business mentor’, which is exactly what he did, engaging with Te Waka and Business Mentors New Zealand, a decision he said has well and truly paid off. “We developed a clear strategy and set goals to achieve our sustainable growth path. We have strategy sessions to cement how to grow to the next tier which is 15 project managers. “I can’t recommend highly enough how valuable this programme has been for me and the business,” Adam says. It’s understandable that when you first start a business the owner will hold on tight on how the business is to run but, as Adam realises, this isn’t sustainable or particularly beneficial. “Understanding when its time and in what way to evolve your role and to bring others in who can also grow professionally is really important to the future growth of the business I have come to realise.” The decision to focus in the future on the burgeoning renewable energy sector is something Adam is really looking forward to. “It has a good feel to it, given how people today are more concerned about the environment and working in sustainable ways.” “We have a sense of pride when we deliver projects as we know our communities and our families can appreciate our hard work and involvement both now but in many generations to come.” He’s also flexible in terms of how the staff work, using a hybrid model of the team working at times at the business headquarters, or at home, or in remote offices on site when projects are underway. “We also try to keep Friday a day when we do gather and discuss where things are at for each of us, how the business is going and share plans and thinking about future projects to get involved in. “It’s a good open way to operate the business,” he says. Wavelength Water Limited is proudly 100% New Zealand owned and operated. Our highly specialised team is your single source to provide water treatment expertise through scoping, design, equipment supply, installation, commissioning, training and service. 2/36 Zelanian Drive, East Tamaki, Auckland (09) 274 1646 info@wavelengthwater.co.nz

14 | Fonterra a vital pillar in Maungaturoto economy Maungaturoto site reps receiving the Fonterra Best Site Cup for Productivity award 2023. Fonterra - Maungaturoto T T Karen Phelps REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT In the heart of the Maungaturoto region Fonterra stands as a vital pillar of the local economy. The dairy co-operative has embedded itself into the fabric of the Maungaturoto community making its operations the lifeblood of the region. With a strong commitment to the well being of its people, the environment, and diversity in its workforce, Fonterra has woven an intricate web of benefits that extend far beyond the dairy factory gates. Site Operations Manager at Fonterra Maungaturoto Taryn Haslem emphasises the close-knit relationship between the factory and the local community. “We make it our first point of call if we have vacancies to go out to our staff and ask if they know anyone interested along with advertising the role to the wider public. This means we ensure locals are made aware of the opportunities as well,” she says. This approach has not only fostered a sense of togetherness but has also created valuable job opportunities for the community. The Maungaturoto site employs 118 individuals, and it’s not uncommon to find family members working together, she says. Fonterra offers diverse career opportunities including support staff roles such as environment, health and safety, HR, food safety quality and process technology. Taryn says that entry-level positions can serve as a stepping-stone to exciting career paths within manufacturing operations. “People can enter at the bottom level and work their way up to great career opportunities. With three different manufacturing plants on-site, specializing in whole milk powder, whey and casein, individuals have the chance to experience various processes and equipment, ultimately allowing them to move into supervisory and managerial roles. All our plant managers at the moment have come up through the ranks. It’s been incredible for locals to have those opportunities to reach a senior management position. This commitment to nurturing local talent serves as a testament to the co-operative’s investment in its people and the wider community.” She says that diversity and inclusion are also high on Fonterra’s agenda. “The co-operative recognizes the value of having a workforce that reflects the community it serves. By embracing a diverse range of talents and perspectives, Fonterra is better positioned to tackle the challenges of the dairy industry while supporting and uplifting its community.” The co-operative also extends its support to the Maungaturoto community through its Hapori initiative, which Taryn sits on the committee of, where community members can apply for funding in three key areas: strengthening the community, environmental initiatives, and other social causes. In the past year alone, Fonterra Maungaturoto has contributed to approximately two dozen community initiatives in Northland. These initiatives include post-cyclone relief support, providing food packs to struggling families and supporting local sports teams with merchandise for hampers. Additionally Fonterra has been a driving force behind initiatives such as Surfing for Farmers, which focuses on improving farmers’ mental health, and the I Have a Dream mentorship program in schools, showing its dedication to fostering community well-being at every level. Recognising that the co-operative is a consumer of water in its operations responsible stewardship of the valuable resource is a priority for the well being of the wider community, says Taryn. The plant processes and reuses the water, ensuring minimal wastage and environmental impact. She highlights that this work is on going, including a recent study that has identified further potential process water to reclaim through various initiatives. Taryn hopes that Fonterra’s operations in Maungaturoto serve as an example of how a large industry can become deeply intertwined with a small, rural community for the mutual benefit of both. “Fonterra Maungaturoto has become more than a manufacturing site,” she says. “It’s a lifeline for the Maungaturoto region, nurturing growth, prosperity and unity.” “This commitment to nurturing local talent serves as a testament to the cooperative’s investment in its people and the wider community.” Industrial Control Systems Specialists Proudly supporting Fonterra Manufacturing Operations in Northland Contact: Rob Good | Ph 021823701 | Email info@controlsynergy.co.nz www.activerefrigeration.co.nz Sustainable Refrigeration & HVAC Solutions P. 09 430 3186 25B Herekino St Whangarei. E. martin@activerefrig.co.nz

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