Volume 23 | Issue 6 | November 2024 www.waterfordpress.co.nz businessnorth Marching on… Kiwi frontrunner RLB Packaging has already ticked off a century in business, and the vision moving forward remains the same… T T Page 10
2 | businessnorth 14| People first Whangārei Māori-owned construction and consultancy business Te Putahi Projects lives by its values and principles 45 | Housing hope The Bridge Housing Charitable Trust is ramping up its efforts to provide affordable-housing solutions across the Waikato region. 60| Timber time Getting Cross-Laminated Timber used more widely in building construction is the core goal of Rotorua-based Red Stag TimberLab. 45 60 14 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 responsibility for loss of photos or manuscripts. #businessnorth #yourstory www.waterfordpress.co.nz Carve Meat Co ............................................................................ 03 Rotorua Aquatic Centre............................................................. 04 Rotorua Museum Restoration.................................................. 06 Hikotron ...................................................................................... 07 Momentum Waikato.................................................................. 08 RLB Packaging ............................................................................ 10 Northland Planning & Development ....................................... 12 Te Putahi Projects ...................................................................... 14 All Marine Whangarei ................................................................ 15 Port Whangarei Marine Service Centre................................... 16 Oceania Marine.......................................................................... 17 Culham Engineering .................................................................. 18 Northern Pipe and Civil ............................................................. 20 Northland Plumbing Supplies Ltd............................................ 21 BOI Plumbing & Gas .................................................................. 22 Stonecraftnz Ltd. ........................................................................ 24 saveBOARD................................................................................. 26 Turners Automotive................................................................... 28 Haydn & Rollett .......................................................................... 30 TITAN Containers ..................................................................... 31 AsureQuality NZ ......................................................................... 32 Marra Construction ................................................................... 33 Jargonel Properties .................................................................... 34 Safari Group ............................................................................... 36 Capri Construction..................................................................... 39 Vibe Group.................................................................................. 40 Searle Group............................................................................... 42 The Perry Group......................................................................... 45 Pepe Ridge .................................................................................. 48 Rangitahi Peninsula ................................................................... 49 Lockerbie Estate......................................................................... 50 McConnell Property................................................................... 53 RML Machinery........................................................................... 54 Buckley Systems......................................................................... 56 Lowes Hire & Engineering......................................................... 58 Arcwell Engineering ................................................................... 58 Red Stag Group .......................................................................... 60 Laminated Beams Ltd ............................................................... 63 DMS Progrowers ........................................................................ 64 Darling Group............................................................................. 65 Matamata Panelworks .............................................................. 66 Blacks Transport ........................................................................ 68 Active VMA .................................................................................. 68 Antares Transport...................................................................... 70 CV Compton................................................................................ 71 Cargo Plus ................................................................................... 72 COSCO Shipping Lines............................................................... 73 KJS Logtranz Ltd ......................................................................... 74 Mini Cranes NZ........................................................................... 76 Hydrex ......................................................................................... 77 Hennessy Electrical Solutions...................................................78 EAS Waikato................................................................................79 Fulton Hogan - Auckland...........................................................80 Profile Earthworks .....................................................................82 Superior Excavation...................................................................83 Installation and Piping Services ...............................................84 APC Landscape Construction ...................................................85 Magna Concrete & Construction..............................................86 Bomax Construction..................................................................88 CPRW Group ...............................................................................90 O’Brien Design Consulting ........................................................92 Lindholm Design ........................................................................93 ARCreate Design Studio ............................................................94 Kitchen Studio ............................................................................95 Designmarked ............................................................................96 Kitchens R Us..............................................................................98 Signature Homes Rodney & North Shore ............................ 100 BG Build ................................................................................... 104 Beachside Builders ................................................................. 105 Callavate Builders ................................................................... 106 Connect Homes....................................................................... 108 Aaron Butler Construction..................................................... 109 RN MacRae Builders ............................................................... 110 Fowler Homes Bay of Plenty.................................................. 110 Longview Homes..................................................................... 112 Keith Hay Homes .................................................................... 113 Roderick Building .................................................................... 114 Habitat Housing ...................................................................... 116 Footprint Homes NZ ............................................................... 116 Superior Building .................................................................... 117 David Reid Homes Auckland Central.................................... 118 Falcon Build ............................................................................. 119 Dreamspace Tiny Homes....................................................... 121 Precision Built.......................................................................... 122 The Reno Guys ........................................................................ 122 Roger Ramsey Builder ............................................................ 124 High End Homes ..................................................................... 125 Totara Construction................................................................ 126 NZ Concrete Structures.......................................................... 127 Navigation Homes Central Plateau....................................... 128 Origin Build.............................................................................. 129 GV Homes ................................................................................ 130 Keam Construction ................................................................. 132 Kauri Point Construction........................................................ 133 Wade Builders ......................................................................... 134 Tiny Home HQ......................................................................... 135 OneStaff Auckland .................................................................. 136 Oceania Healthcare: ............................................................... 138 Barfoot & Thompson.............................................................. 141 Waikato Thoroughbred Racing.............................................. 142 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 CO-MANAGING PARTNER Chris Pearce chris.pearce@waterfordpress.co.nz EDITORIAL Editor Nick Gormack nick@waterfordpress.co.nz Sub-editor Randall Johnston Journalists Lindy Andrews, Anne Boswell, 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 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| 3 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Carve Meat Co T T Richard Loader Meat retailer carves out rewarding niche Craig and Kate Luxton - caring about their staff, suppliers and customers. When Kate Luxton, who with her husband Craig owns Auckland based high-quality meat business-to-business retailer Carve Meat Co, received an email from the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) inviting participation in an anonymous staff survey she saw it as a golden opportunity to gain honest feedback from the team. “We thought we might have got more critical feedback from the survey, but we were pleasantly surprised in the results,” says Kate. “One of the things that came out was that the staff felt part of a family and appreciated. So, it was about doing more of the stuff that makes people feel valued, and a lot of that is around communication.” Following the survey, Carve Meat Co. was invited to enter EMA’s Best Places to Work awards, and while not a finalist, Kate says huge benefits were gained from going through the process. “You don’t often get the luxury of reflecting on what you’ve achieved or what you’re doing in your business — you’re just doing it. Going through an awards process made me think about what we do well, and other areas that potentially might be worth considering — such as more training or other benefits we could offer as part of a package to keep morale and retain staff.” Carve Meat Co. had already put in place a Wellness Assessment that staff can elect to participate in each Wednesday that gives them the chance to do Yoga, Stretch, Massage, Breathwork, Fitness or Meditation. There is also an offer of gym membership. “We have a team of eleven staff, plus Craig and me, and so far three have taken up the gym membership offer.” Reflecting on what has been at the heart of company’s success Kate says it is about caring about staff, suppliers and customers, and being respectful. “We have a great product but without those other things it is meaningless. People deal with us because we try to make it easy as possible. There are ways we can keep on improving on that.” Founded by Kate and Craig, the company’s roots go back to 1997, with an organic growth path that has resulted in the distribution of a wide range of premium products including venison, lamb, pork, beef and wagyu beef, and veal — quality premium brands primarily sourced within New Zealand. There is also an in-house brand called Mahy Farms which offers hams, streaky bacon, loin bacon, shoulder bacon, smoked pork sausages, chorizo, black pudding and free-range chicken. The products are sold to the hospitality sector, including hotels, cafes, restaurants, and caterers. Based in the Wairau Valley, Carve Meat Co has four chiller trucks on the road distributing within Auckland CBD, suburban Auckland and North Shore. A third-party distributer is used for Northland, Waiheke Island, Bay of Plenty and Gisborne. “Most of our out-of-town clients have been Auckland chefs and they want the same product in their new restaurant. The quality of the meat starts with what the farmer does, genetics, what the animal is fed and how the animal is processed — that all contributes to the eating experience.” Proudly associated with Carve Meat Co. www.petertimbsmeats.co.nz Proud supporter & supplier of Carve Meat Co We specialise in quality Ham, Bacon & Smallgoods Download our app today!
4 | Rotorua Lakes Council: Rotorua Aquatic Centre T T Karen Phelps Revitalised centre making a splash Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell with tamariki having the first swim on opening day REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell says it’s been a joint effort with partners and contractors to complete stage two of the Rotorua Aquatic Centre, which was opened to the public in June. “We are grateful for the support from others to deliver a better and refreshed facility for the many people who enjoy it,” she says. “Despite current financial challenges it’s been positive to see the progression of much needed upgrades and investment into this facility that is well loved and well used by residents of all ages in our community.” The completion of stage two represents a substantial investment in the community’s future with the indoor facility receiving a complete overhaul after nearly four decades of service. The newly opened areas include the indoor pools, refurbished front-of-house area, modernised change facilities (including several accessible changing rooms and a Universal Change Suite with hoist and shower bed), the Splash Café, and gymnasium. One of the most significant improvements is the complete upgrade of the pool filtration and treatment systems, ensuring optimal water quality for swimmers. The main pool hall has also undergone a transformation, featuring a transparent roof that creates a better connection with the outdoor 50m-pool area - the only outdoor heated 50m pool in the country utilising natural geothermal resources for heating. Mary Corbett, chair of Te Runanga o Ngāti Kearoa Ngāti Tuara, also praised the collaborative effort behind the project. “The Aquatic Centre project has been an example of genuine partnership with Māori through cultural inclusion while supporting community wellbeing. “Ngāti Kearoa Ngāti Tuara have had the opportunity in the design process to develop the cultural landscape to express their values and pūrākau | storytelling.” This partnership is evident in the centre’s new design elements, which incorporate cultural storytelling and inspiration from taiao (environmental) elements in the rohe (district). Lead artist Hakopa Pore, facilitated the cultural designs throughout the centre, which include a reception desk featuring a spiral design, drawing its inspiration from the whenua and the natural thermal mud pools around Kuirau Park, Rotorua. The pattern rises, falls “The Aquatic Centre project has been an example of genuine partnership with Māori through cultural inclusion while supporting community wellbeing.” and twists mimicking the movements of the bubbling mud as it emerges from the depths. The window frosting designs pay homage to the pounamu ornament, which was hung near the hot pool Tū-te-Mahurangi, capturing the timeless and spiritual essence, which gives the Tārewa Pounamu (Tarewa Road) area its name. Hakopa has said the repetitive nature of the pattern symbolises the community coming together in kotahitanga under one roof and ‘hanging up’ any work, worries or burdens to be renewed and rejuvenated by the restorative powers of the water. The revitalisation project has been a substantial undertaking and council began work on the redevelopment in 2019. Stage one saw the outdoor 50m-heated pool and changing facilities redeveloped. Stage two alone accounted for 107,336 manhours of work since November 2022. The combined investment from Rotorua Lakes Council and Central Government for this stage totalled $23.5 million, underscoring the project’s importance to the region. Stage three, which is dependent on securing external funding, could bring additional exciting features to the Aquatic Centre. Proposed additions include a splash pad, spas, a bomb pool, a hydroslide, and a dedicated learn-to-swim pool. Rotorua Aquatic Centre attracts over 350,000 visits annually. Its ‘learn to swim’ programme provides more than 70,000 lessons each year. Mayor Tapsell emphasises the long-term benefits of the upgrade: “This is an investment in our future and will be enjoyed by our community for years to come.”
| 5 Rotorua Lakes Council: Rotorua Aquatic Centre Members of the project team, contractors, CLM (pool operators), and Ngāti Kearoa Ngāti Tuara iwi representatives at the centre’s opening day.. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT 94 Gargan Road, Tauriko, Tauranga 3110 | 07 575 2027 | office@harkinroofing.co.nz | www.harkinroofing.co.nz PROUD TO BE ASSOCIATEDWITH THE ROTORUA AQUATIC CENTRE AS THEIR PREFERRED INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL METAL ROOFING AND CLADDING SPECIALISTS
6 | Rotorua Lakes Council: Rotorua Museum Resoration T T Kim Newth Restoration of heritage icon underway REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT One of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most magnificent heritage buildings – Rotorua’s Elizabethan-style Bath House – has been partially wrapped in scaffolding, marking the start of an exciting restoration and strengthening project. The category one heritage building was once a famous spa, built to entice visitors from all over the world to its healing geothermal waters. Since 1969, the building has flourished as a cultural destination, housing Rotorua Museum Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa. Earthquake-related damage in late 2016 has put the museum off limits to the public, but “This is a real success for our community as the project will benefit our economy, creating jobs and investment into the restoration of our iconic building...” works are now underway to give the building a new lease of life with Rotorua Museum due to reopen there in 2027. Scaffolding and roof trusses went up on the building’s North Wing in August and will be in place until next spring. Over the coming months, handrails and turrets will be removed from the North Wing and taken away for restoration. As well, existing roof tiles will be removed and a warm roofing system installed, along with structural ply on the roof framing. New ‘Marseille’ roof tiles of similar shape and colour will replace the old tiles. Exterior timber will be repaired and refreshed with new paint, replicating existing heritage colours. Following community consultation, Rotorua Lakes Council greenlit plans to proceed with strengthening and re-opening of the museum last August. That was subject to further funding being secured over and above the council’s own $15.5m contribution. The full building project funding target was $73.55m. The final boost required to meet that target came in April 2024, being a $5m grant from the Provincial Growth Fund (Kānoa – RD) and bringing to $22m the total commitment from Central Government. “This is a real success for our community as the project will benefit our economy, creating jobs and investment into the restoration of our iconic building and reputation as a worldclass destination,” says Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell, who has extended thanks to all their generous funders and those working on this project for their community. The category one heritage building was once a famous spa, built to entice visitors from all over the world to its healing geothermal waters. An expert team of ire protection consultants working throughout NZ and Asia Paci ic. Our areas of expertise are designed to ensure that our valued client partners bene it from minimal risk combined with optimum value for money. The strength and depth of our specialist areas enables us to deliver a customised service to our clients, combining technical excellence with consistent, market-led innovation. Proudly supporting Rotorua Lakes Council on the Rotorua MuseumRestoration Project BRENDON TURNER DIRECTOR FIRE PROTECTION SPECIALIST 022 700 0064 L1 - 373 Dominion Rd, Mt Eden, Auckland bturner@osbornassociates.com O S B O R N Osborn Associates NZ Fire Protection Consultancy
| 7 Rotorua Museum Resoration Since 1969, the building has flourished as a cultural destination, housing Rotorua Museum Te Whare Taonga o Te Arawa. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Charging up the network Hikotron has installed over 120 charging points, predominantly across the Waikato region. T T Bernadette Cooney Hikotron Actively addressing New Zealand’s lack of destination AC charging for electric vehicles, is Hamilton based company, Hikotron – an innovative company designing and building EV charging technologies as a pay-as-you -go service for commercial and public sector facilities. Unlike DC chargers which serve long-distance travel needs by ‘filling up’ at a petrol station, destination AC chargers allow EV owners to “sip” electricity at charging points where people naturally park, such as shopping centres, business hubs, hospitality precincts and apartment buildings. Hikotron founders, Ron Smits and his wife Stephanie Smits- O’Callaghan, drew from their experience living in London and navigating the destination EV charging infrastructure there, before moving to New Zealand in 2020. “Across Europe, around 80 percent of public chargers are destination charging hubs,” says Steph, “which encourages drivers to plug in while attending meetings, shopping, or at the gym, that sort of thing.” It’s important to build an EV charging ecosystem that includes a combination of fast and destination charging says Steph, and Hikotron aims to establish New Zealand’s largest EV AC charging network offering convenient, ubiquitous access and confidence for EV drivers that they can charge up upon arrival at frequently visited destinations. Since its inception, Hikotron has installed over 120 charging points, predominantly across the Waikato region including popular destinations like Hamilton Gardens and Hamilton Zoo. “We’re planning to expand nationwide,” says Steph, “and at the start of this year we installed our first public site in Blenheim in the South Island and there is a private business charger as far south as Christchurch at this point in time.” The company name is a fusion of “Hiko,” te reo Māori meaning flash of lightning or electricity, and “tron” from the colloquial placename for Hamilton. “The Hikotron charging station is New Zealand designed, made and patented and we partner with New Zealand companies wherever possible,” says Steph. “Foster Engineering have been instrumental in helping us with fabrication.” The Hikotron smart charging station provides between 7kW and 22kW of charging power and on average a one-hour 22kW charge at a Hikotron charger provides a 140km driving range. “We want anyone to be able to turn up to a charger and use it then and there,” says Steph. “Download the app, upload some payment details and get the charger working.” Other key funding partners are Rotorua Trust ($15m), Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage ($9m), Lotteries ($6.35m) and Bay of Plenty Regional Council ($4.1m), along with local philanthropists Joe and Jo Anne La Grouw (who donated proceeds from the sale of a significant artwork). In June, New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) also gave a multi-year grant of $400,000 to aid in the strengthening, restoration and redevelopment of the Rotorua Bath House and Museum. A Building Governance Group, established in September 2023, set the pathway to successful delivery of project design, procurement and pre-construction achieving cost savings along the way. The construction contract was won by Watts & Hughes, whose involvement with the Bath House building goes back to 2010-11, (the South Wing extension project). “We are excited to be working on the iconic Rotorua Museum again,” says Watts & Hughes Construction Director Mark Gutry. Meanwhile, exhibition development has been continuing and the focus will move now to gaining external funding to ensure that world-class exhibitions telling local stories will be available when the building re-opens. Before the closure, the museum attracted more than 100,000 visitors a year. It houses a nationally significant collection, including social history artifacts, art and photography plus more than two thousand taonga Māori. Auckland +64 9 303 4394 | Hamilton +64 7 211 7926 | Napier +64 21 169 2249 Wellington +64 4 499 1468 | Queenstown +64 3 442 596 | www.maltbys.co.nz Cost Management | Development Management | Project Funder Services Engineer to Contract | Independent Certifier | Advisory Services Successfully delivering projects throughout New Zealand since 1929 ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE SPECIALISTS Consulting and design Installation and ongoing management Fleet, public, commercial, apartments www.hikotron.com e: hello@hikotron.com p: 0800 694 456 Whether you are building a new home, renovating or making a simple lighting change, Shaw Electrical has the experience for all your residential or commercial electrical services. Contact Mike Shaw: P 027 637 4562 E info@shawelectrical.co.nz W www.shawelectrical.co.nz
8 | Momentum Waikato: Waikato Regional Theatre T T Karen Phelps Excitement building for new theatre Construction of the WRT began in October 2021 and has been progressing smoothly. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT It’s not due for completion until 2025 but the Waikato Regional Theatre (WRT) has been inundated with both domestic and international booking requests, says general manager of the theatre Gus Sharp. All requests are being dealt with as expressions of interest as the theatre ensures a balanced opening programme, catering to a diverse range of audiences and showcasing the best of both local and international performance, he says. “We’ve had a lot of interest from performers but also businesses looking at the venue to host events. It shows people recognise that Hamilton is a regional hub and, in the case of performers, that there is an audience here hungry for live performance.” The ground breaking venture is not just another building project; it’s a bold statement about the future of culture and entertainment in Hamilton and the wider Waikato region, says communications and marketing manager at Momentum Waikato Mark Servian. Local businesses are gearing up for the influx of visitors the venue is expected to attract, with new cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops popping up in the vicinity. The economic ripple effect is evident, breathing new life into an area that was once overlooked, he says. Construction of the WRT began in October 2021 and has been progressing smoothly, says Mark. The Waikato Regional Property Trust, which will own the theatre and its operating company, has made significant strides in preparing for the venue’s future operations. The Trust, chaired by Ross Hargood, has appointed Deborah Nudds and Chris Williams to sit alongside the Board of Trustees. Nudds, the manager of The Meteor theatre in Hamilton, and Williams, the manager of King Street Advertising and a producer of musicals, bring valuable experience to the project. Momentum Waikato Community Foundation initiated the theatre project, is driving the fundraising, communications and marketing for it, and set up the Waikato Regional Property Trust as the independent dedicated entity that will be its owner and operator. Funding for the project has come from a mix of public and private sources, demonstrating the broad support for the initiative. Local businesses have stepped up with sponsorships, while individual donors have contributed through a ‘Take a Seat’ campaign. “Community engagement has been a cornerstone of the WRT project from its inception and the collaborative approach has fostered a sense of ownership among Hamiltonians.“ Mark says this diverse funding model ensures that the theatre remains a true community asset. As the theatre starts to take shape the WRT, which retains the façade of the old Hamilton Hotel, a heritage building, is turning heads, says Mark. Inside, state-of-the-art acoustics and flexible staging options promise to deliver world-class performances in an intimate setting. The theatre is also expected to be a popular venue for the business community to hold events with a three level foyer, rooms for hire and even plans to host dinners on the stage itself. “Businesses are always looking for new and different experiences for their staff and customers. WRT will really give the business community a unique place to hold events,” says Gus. Mark and Gus say there are still opportunities for people to be involved at all levels to help the project reach its funding target and they remain humbled by the support the project is receiving: “For example we had one person just donated $25,000 of an inheritance to honour the person that had passed away,” says Mark. “There is also the Business Collective Support scheme that has been popular where businesses can donate $10,000 to have their name displayed on a board in the theatre generating both recognition for their business and also do some good for the community. “Community engagement has been a cornerstone of the WRT project from its inception and the collaborative approach has fostered a sense of ownership among Hamiltonians. “The WRT is a beacon of creativity and a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision.” 25 Langley Road, Wiri, Auckland Ph: +64 9 2783366 Fax: +64 2788595 E-Mail: davidm@grayson-eng.co.nz SPECIALISTS IN STRUCTURAL STEEL, FABRICATION & STEEL ERECTION Proudly supporting Foster Construction on the Waikato Regional Theatre project
| 9 Momentum Waikato: Waikato Regional Theatre Momentum Waikato Community Foundation initiated the theatre project. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PHONE: 07 850 1108 | 027 494 2281 Proud to support Momentum Waikato - Regional Theatre Wilco has recently opened a branch in Horotiu, Hamilton, to continue our service of the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions. Building upon a 60-year history at the company’s Papakura plant, our ongoing quality assurance system and commitment to quality principles and procedures provides for total customer satisfaction: high quality precast components and a smoother, faster construction process. www.wilcoprecast.co.nz Mainmark provides cutting-edge ground engineering technologies, proven worldwide. Our unique methods provide cost-effective, time-efficient solutions. We re-level and re-support apartments, of ce buildings, shopping centres, heritage buildings, warehouses, factories, roads, railways and many other structures. We strengthen and stabilise weak ground, ll holes and voids, and revitalise ageing concrete and steel infrastracture helping to ensure you have a safe, functioning environment. For an obligation free, expert opinion contact us 0800 873 835 www.mainmark.co.nz
10 | REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT RLB Packaging T T Kim Newth Packaging leader building on legacy Employing over 35 staff across New Zealand, RLB Packaging supports and stands by their dedicated team. “Our focus today is on innovation, particularly in sustainable packaging and automation, ensuring that we provide future-proof solutions for our customers and remain the go-to experts in packaging.” It is no mean feat to reach 10 years in business. Getting to 100 years is nothing short of remarkable. For Kiwi frontrunner RLB Packaging, which has already ticked off a century in business, the vision moving forward remains the same – to continue delivering the best service in the industry. Founded in 1920 by enterprising merchant Robert Lorimer Button, RLB Packaging has evolved and grown through the decades into a leading provider of tailored packaging solutions. With spacious warehouse facilities in both Auckland and Christchurch, RLB Packaging is well-equipped to meet demand and efficiently serves customers nationwide. General Manager Mike Button, representing the family’s fourth-generation in the business, is looking ahead with confidence with RLB Packaging strongly positioned for ongoing success. “We’re incredibly proud of our long-standing history in New Zealand,” says Mike. “Our focus today is on innovation, particularly in sustainable packaging and automation, ensuring that we provide future-proof solutions for our customers and remain the go-to experts in packaging.” Employing over 35 staff across New Zealand, RLB Packaging supports and stands by their dedicated team. The positive workplace culture naturally flows through to better service and stronger relationships with customers and business partners. Mike says many of their employees have been with them for 10, 20 or even 30 years or more and that’s a real plus from the continuity of service perspective. “Our people and our family culture are our competitive advantage and have been key to our long-term success.” A recent brand refresh, aligned with their focus on innovation, is building further momentum. The modern-look refresh honours their founder’s legacy while also signalling their positive future direction that includes a digital transformation. In July, RLB Packaging launched their new ecommerce website, making it a cinch for customers to browse products, place orders and find the right packaging solutions. It has been well-received and widely adopted by their customers throughout New Zealand. RLB Packaging is making some smart strategic moves this year, designed to keep them at the industry forefront. “We are excited about our recent acquisition of Perfect Packaging that expands our capabilities in end-of-line packaging machinery and automation. This acquisition positions us as a leading supplier of packaging machinery and consumables throughout New Zealand. We now have the largest in-house service department in the country, staffed with some of the most experienced service technicians.” Sustainable business practice is the new gold standard in today’s market. RLB Packaging is helping their customers to adopt more responsible and eco-friendly packaging solutions, including paper-based packaging solutions (as a distributor of the sustainable Ranpak product range) and lower environmental pallet wrap options like FUTERETEK. RLB Packaging’s pallet wrapping partner business PELITEK offers a full range of products and machines that enhance efficiency and sustainability in pallet wrapping. Robopac pallet wrapping machines allow clients to stretch and wrap according to their needs and specifications. The team even provides a free wrap review service to assess current set-ups and suggest pathways to improvement. These reviews can prove very advantageous. After one recent wrap review, The Apple Press from Apollo Foods ended up switching to lighter-gauge FUTURETEK, thereby reducing their annual plastic film waste by one tonne and film costs by $7500. “It’s a perfect example of how sustainable solutions can also drive efficiency and economic benefits.” Giving back to the community and trying to make a meaningful difference is close to the heart of this high achieving New Zealand business, with different charities supported each year. In 2024, their team is proudly supporting KiwiHarvest and Under the Stars. The future is bright for RLB Packaging as industry leaders, driven by a passion to serve. “Looking ahead, we intend to keep evolving and improving, and building strong relationships – with our customers, suppliers and community.” Proudly supporting RLB Packaging
| 11 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT RLB Packaging With spacious warehouse facilities in both Auckland and Christchurch, RLB Packaging is well-equipped to meet demand and efficiently serves customers nationwide.
12 | Northland: Northland Planning & Development T T Karen Phelps Staying up to speed with changing rules Property owners and developers in Northland are facing a complex web of new regulations and opportunities. “As we are locals, this gives us good knowledge of what will and won’t work in the region in terms of the District Plan.” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Northland is experiencing a period of significant change with modifications to legislation occurring at both district and national levels meaning that property owners and developers are facing a complex web of new regulations and opportunities, says Rochelle Jacobs, co-owner of Northland Planning & Development. “It’s crucial for people to understand these changes and how they might affect their current and future projects,” she says. One of the most significant changes on the horizon is the proposed Far North District Plan that will reshape the rules for future development in the region. Northland Planning & Development has been actively involved in this process, making submissions on behalf of numerous clients. “It’s setting the scene for the rules for future development, so it’s an important role we are playing on behalf of our clients,” Rochelle explains. “We have also made submissions on more generalised issues for the greater good of the community.” The company’s local roots give it a unique advantage in this process. “As we are locals, this gives us good knowledge of what will and won’t work in the region in terms of the District Plan. This local insight has allowed Northland Planning & Development to identify potential issues that might not be immediately apparent to others. Another area where Northland Planning & Development has been particularly active is in helping clients navigate the changing landscape for properties zoned Rural Production or Coastal Living. “In the proposed District Plan, people will no longer be able to subdivide as they are able to now. For example, in the Rural Production zone subdivision rights for older titles enable the creation of either 4000m2 or 2ha sites with relative ease. It is proposed in the new plan that the minimum size be increased to 8ha and the activity status be changed to give Council full discretion over conditions. Similarly in the Coastal Living zone as a discretionary activity you can create sites of 5000m2. It is proposed that this be increased to 2ha.” This impending change has led to a flurry of activity, with Northland Planning & Development busy applying for consents to secure rights for clients before the new regulations come into effect. The changes aren’t limited to the district level. Rochelle also highlights modifications happening at the national level, particularly regarding minor residential units. “Currently in the Far North District, only the Rural Production zone allows for them, and you require consent. The government is looking to make the activity permitted meaning that no resource consent will be required so long as you meet the performance standards.” Rochelle sees this as a positive change, potentially opening up more options for rental accommodations, extended family living arrangements, or housing for elderly parents. The company’s approach to navigating these changes is deeply rooted in its local knowledge and experience. Both Rochelle and her business partner, Sheryl Hansford grew up in Northland so they are intimately acquainted with its unique nature and the people who live there. Rochelle says this means that they not only have good relationships with council but also with the local community. They bring a sound understanding of the various types of land in Northland – coastal, rural and urban. They also both have extensive backgrounds in local government and planning. This insider knowledge allows them to anticipate potential hurdles and streamline the consent process for their clients. “We know intimately what Councils require when it comes to resource consents and resource management. This means less delays and hold-ups for our clients.” As Northland continues to grow and develop Rochelle says the role of companies like Northland Planning & Development becomes increasingly crucial to guide people through the complex and ever-changing landscape of planning regulations. With offices in Kaitaia and Kerikeri, Northland Planning & Development can assist clients Northland-wide. Building and Engineering Setout
Sustainable engineering for a sustainable future. Geotechnical • Environmental • Natural Hazards 3 Waters • Subdivision & Land Development In a move set to bolster Northland's engineering capabilities, Geologix Consulting Engineers plans open a new o ce in Kerikeri within the next three to six months. This expansion marks a signi cant step for the Auckland-based rm, which has been steadily increasing its presence in the Northland region. "Around 50% of our work is Northland based, so it made sense to establish a permanent presence in the region. We are set to bring our skills into Northland, providing a high level of technical expertise to local projects,” says director of Geologix Edward Collings. Founded in 2021, Geologix has quickly established itself as a multidisciplinary engineering company with a focus on sustainability and quality solutions with 15 full time engineers. The rm specialises in geotechnical and environmental engineering, while also o ering services in natural hazard assessments, 3 waters engineering, and subdivision and land development. "We're a one-stop shop for everything to do with land development and subdivision engineering," says Edward. "This includes LiDAR and topographic surveys, ecology, and contaminated land services. Our ability to do everything in-house allows us to o er our clients a complete solution." Geologix's expansion into Northland is not just about business growth; it also aligns with the company's commitment to sustainability. As a certi ed Climate Positive Business Operation, Geologix has measured and o set 120% of its carbon footprint with certi ed carbon credits. "Basing locally makes sense to reduce our carbon footprint. It's part of our on-going e ort to operate more sustainably as we grow and aligns with our sustainable approach to development." The move to Kerikeri also presents opportunities for local employment. This approach not only supports the local economy but also aligns with Geologix's philosophy of community engagement and giving back to Aotearoa. "We'll be looking to recruit for some key positions in Kerikeri. We'd like to source sta locally if possible and this is a strong driver for us." Edward says that Geologix already has strong relationships with local companies such as Northland Planning & Development. "We've worked with Northland Planning & Development for many years, providing a one-stop shop for engineering requirements, particularly for subdivision and land use consent engineering design. It’s a very collaborative working relationship and they provide us with reliable and exible planning solutions that inform the engineering decisions we make. Their skills are key to what we do on projects we work on together." While Geologix is setting down roots in Northland, the company maintains a broad perspective working nationally and internationally. For example it has designed lm sets in Northland, tunnels and deep shafts in Auckland, a major land ll in Rotorua, worked on government buildings in Rarotonga, resorts in Fiji and Bali, and even a cultural project in London. Edward says this blend of local focus and global experience positions Geologix well to tackle the diverse range of projects in Northland. From complex stormwater and wastewater designs to geotechnical challenges, the rm is equipped to handle the region's unique engineering needs. As Geologix prepares to open its Kerikeri o ce, Edward says the move is seen as a win-win for both the company and the region. “Northland gains access to high-level technical expertise, while Geologix strengthens its presence in a key market.” Geologix Consulting Engineers Expands to Northland
14 | Building a peoplecentred kaupapa Supporting apprentices and community endeavours through the business aligns with Te Putahi’s values. Northland: Te Putahi Projects T T Sue Russell “Te Putahi is the name of my mountain here in Northland. The whakatuaki recognises the value of returning to your ancestral mountains to be cleansed by the winds of Tāwhirimātea.” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Whangārei Māori-owned construction and consultancy business Te Putahi Projects lives by its values and principles. Its kaupapa is to be a reliable, people-focussed solution provider in Northland’s construction industry, undertaking projects of many sizes and providing quality guidance and support to its clients. “Our goal is to simply put people first and have honesty and integrity at our core,” says Justin Roberts, who established Te Putahi Projects in 2019. Justin developed his own skills in construction, mostly in the North and then moved onto project and cost management largely in the South Island, supporting Christchurch’s rebuild – everything from new builds to strengthening and repairs of heritage buildings. But as he became more engaged in projects for iwi and hapū, Justin realised it was a space he wanted to increasingly direct his professional skills. “Guided by the Whakatauki, ‘Hokia ki ō maunga kia purea e koe I ngā hau o Tāwhirimātea’, my family and I realised we really wanted to return to the North. “Te Putahi is the name of my mountain here in Northland. The whakatuaki recognises the value of returning to your ancestral mountains to be cleansed by the winds of Tāwhirimātea.” Justin has since been involved in planning work for his own marae rebuild and has subsequently worked with Te Rarawa and Te Aupōuri in a consultancy capacity. “There’s a lot of building activity happening here driven by a need to provide whānau with decent healthy homes. Today, I have 15 builders and six in the office, so that’s a big leap since first beginning.” In the construction capacity we have a team working on a retirement village in Whangārei. The retirement village is a long-term commitment, with 220+ units and a hospital located in its centre. Work has also come through engaging with Kāinga Ora among other residential projects. Justin is pleased with the number of Māori apprentices he has on board. His vision is to provide opportunities to rangatahi and help them build a future through the trade. Fortunately, Justin has a solid team behind him to help bring these apprentices on. Ongoing support and training is offered with some apprentices undertaking practical courses each month through Te Pukenga (Northtec). Supporting apprentices and community endeavours through the business aligns with Te Putahi’s values, and Justin says it feels great to give back. He recognises he’s been given plenty of guidance and opportunities in himself in life and business. Justin says the recent down-turn has seen some projects slowing down in the region. “That’s the thing about working in the construction sector, there are swings and roundabouts, with one type of building work slowing down or stopping while another one picks up. I do have another big housing development of 18 two-storey units ahead based in Whangārei.” Five founding principles guide how the business operates and the teams conduct themselves. Mā te whakapono – By believing and trusting; Mā te whakaronga – By listening and hearing; Mā te mahi tahi – By working and striving together; Mā te manawanui – By patience and perseverance; Ka taea e tātou – We will succeed. And the values Justin and the team work with are also expressed in the company’s beautifully crafted logo, depicting Te Putahi, the mountain, in stylised form, with winds swirling around. “Like the strength of my ancestral mountain I strive for excellence in whatever I do and stand by the integrity and professionalism of our growing team.” Free measure, quote and consultation Email: sales@nulooknorthland.co.nz Or call in at 15 Waipanga Road, Kamo To nd out more call us on 09 435 0038 Windows Doors Commercial Balustrades NORTHLAND NORTHLANDNORTHLAND NORTHLAND NORTHLAND NORTHLAND www.nulooknorthland.co.nz NORTHLAND Proud to support Te Putahi Projects FOR HOUSE SITES AND Free quotes and genuine advice 021 404 467 info@wallisearthmoving.co.nz wallisearthmoving.co.nz
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