December 2023 - Bay of Plenty Business News

DECEMBER 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 12 

WWW.BOPBUSINESSNEWS.CO.NZ 

FACEBOOK.COM/BAYOFPLENTYBUSINESSNEWS 

BBN 2023: YEAR IN REVIEW 

Alan Neben reviews the topsy-turvy year that was and 

tracks the big Business News stories of 2023 

Pages 6-7 

ROTORUA 2023 BUSINESS AWARDS 

For the glitz and glamour from the Tompkins Wake Rotorua 

Business Awards 2023 and a full list of award winners 

Pages 20-21 

NEW APPOINTMENTS 

Organisations ring in a swathe of changes across the 

Bay as 2023 draws to a close 

Pages 22-23 

BUSINESS LEADERS 

REVIEW 2023/2024 

> SPECIAL FOCUS 

Each December, Bay of Plenty Business News sits down with members of the business community 

and asks them about their experiences of the current environment. In this December’s Thought 

Leaders edition we hear from 12 prominent business people as they consider the prospects for their own businesses, their industry 

sectors and for the business community as a whole. See pages 8-19. 

Back row: Freddie Bennett – Titan Sky, Andrea Scatchard – Deloitte, Steven Matthews – Link Business Brokers, Lyndon Settle – Quayside Holdings, Ryan Storm – Royal Wolf, Andy Martin – Cooney Lees Morgan, 

Dr Wayne Beilby – PMG Funds. Front row: Kate Ashcroft – Copeland Ashcroft, Sarah Ashby – Jarden, Gareth Wallis – Tauranga City Council, Ezra Rentoul – Stratus Blue, Mark Wassung – Design Engine Architects. 

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2 BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS December 2023 

> THE PORTER REPORT 

A monthly update on the business 

world from leading writer David Porter 

CONTACT INFORMATION 

PUBLISHER 

Alan Neben, Ph: 021 733 536 

Email: alan@bopbusinessnews.co.nz 

EDITORIAL 

Alan Neben, Ph: 021 733 536 

Email: editor@bopbusinessnews.co.nz 

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Email: clare@times.co.nz 

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Email: pete@bopbusinessnews.co.nz 

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News releases/Photos/Letters: 

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GENERAL ENQUIRIES 

info@bopbusinessnews.co.nz 

Bay of Plenty Business News has a circulation 

of 8000, distributed throughout Bay of Plenty 

between Waihi and Opotiki including Rotorua 

and Taupo, and to a subscription base. 

Bay of Plenty Business Publications 

309/424 Maunganui Rd, Mt Maunganui, 3116 

Bay of Plenty Business Publications specialises 

in business publishing, advertising, design, print 

and electronic media services. 

www.bopbusinessnews.co.nz 

In case you 

missed last 

month’s edition 

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subscribe 

OUR CROWDED SKIES 

> By DAVID PORTER 

I 

recall as a toddler being 

transfixed by the grainy 

black and white movies 

of humankind’s first explorations 

into space, culminating 

in the first landings on the 

moon. 

As we look up into our 

night sky, we may be deluded 

into thinking that we are still 

looking out onto a vast unexplored 

world. 

But leaving to one side the 

recently launched space telescope’s 

remarkable 

revelations 

of 

the mysteries 

of 

deep 

David Porter 

space, we have still managed 

to clutter up Earth’s near 

orbit to an amazing extent. 

According to a source published 

online, quoting the 

Index of Objects Launched 

into Outer Space – maintained 

by the United Nations 

Office for Outer Space 

Affairs (UNOOSA) – there 

were 11,330 individual satellites 

orbiting the Earth at 

the end of June 2023. That is 

almost 40 percent up on January 

2022. 

That is in itself unsurprising 

given that 2022 saw the 

most objects ever launched 

into space in one year, with 

2,474 objects leaving the 

planet. 

However, as the report 

notes, in the first half of 2023 

there have already been more 

than 1,000 objects launched, 

so the numbers are likely to 

keep going up. 

Even here in New Zealand 

we can lay claim to our own 

space launch station, the 

Rocket Lab Launch Complex, 

located near Ahuriri 

Point at the southern tip 

of Māhia Peninsula. 

International 

protocols 

Keep in mind there are various 

international protocols 

involved in gaining permission 

to launch a satellite. 

But still, the growth in the 

industry is staggering. Since 

2018 there have been more 

objects launched into space 

than in the previous 60 years 

of the space industry. 

And according to Encyclopaedia 

Britannica fact checkers, 

space debris – that is artificial 

material orbiting the 

earth that is no longer functional 

– represents a staggering 

problem. 

Much of the debris is in 

low Earth orbit, within 2,000 

km of Earth’s surface, though 

some debris can be found in 

geostationary orbit around 

35,000 km above the equator. 

As of 2021, the United States 

Space Surveillance Network 

was tracking more than 

15,000 pieces of space debris 

larger than 10cm across. 

According to their article, 

there are about 200,000 

pieces between 1 and 10cm 

across and that there could 

be millions of pieces smaller 

than 1cm. How long a piece 

of space debris takes to fall 

back to Earth depends on its 

altitude. 

Because of the high speeds 

at which objects orbit Earth 

(up to 8 km per second), a collision 

with even a small piece 

of space debris can damage 

a spacecraft. For example, 

space shuttle windows have 

often had to be replaced 

because of collision with 

debris collisions with objects 

smaller than 1mm (0.04 inch). 

You may have wondered 

to what extent the internet 

services we have all come to 

rely upon may be affected 

by this curious dump site we 

have created in near space. 

As with so many things, it all 

comes down to money. 

As a sailor I have long 

depended upon GPS navigation 

for sea voyages. Thankfully 

satellites provide access 

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cables running anywhere 

close such as ships, oil platforms, 

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December 2023 BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS 3 

Toi Ohomai recognised at 

Defence Force Awards 

Toi Ohomai | Te Pūkenga has been recognised 

for its commitment to kaimahi at the annual 

Minister of Defence Force’s 2023 Tohu Awards. 

Run by the Defence 

Employer Support Council 

(DESC), the annual awards 

officially acknowledge how 

employers of Reserve Force and 

Cadet Force Officers are vital 

to Defence Force effectiveness, 

enabling attendance of training, 

fulfilment of deployment opportunities 

and supplementation to 

Regular Force members. 

The awards recognise that 

employers also benefit in employing 

and supporting members of 

the Reserve and Cadet Force Officers, 

as well as Limited Service 

Volunteer Graduates, as the training 

they received through the 

NZDF helps develop and sharpen 

their skills in leadership, teamwork, 

communication, discipline, 

planning and management. 

Toi Ohomai |Te Pūkenga, was 

named the Employer of the Year, 

and was nominated by Major Eli 

Crawshaw, an automotive tutor 

and a Cadet Force Officer. In the 

nomination, it stated that Eli’s 

commendable service was made 

possible through the institute’s 

commitment to the New Zealand 

Cadet Forces (NZCF). The judges 

said the institution had consistently 

provided support to Eli 

and the Cadet Units in the Western 

Bay of Plenty. 

The recognition extends 

beyond a mere acknowledgment 

of employer support. 

“Toi Ohomai | Te Pūkenga has 

human resources policies that 

prioritise service in the organisation 

and recognise the value of 

skills obtained through the NZCF 

training program, regularly utilising 

skills gained from NZCF in the 

workplace,” judges said. “Leadership 

and guidance provided 

by line managers at Toi Ohomai 

| Te Pūkenga have been instrumental 

in helping MAJ Crawshaw 

achieve success in his role as a 

senior Cadet Force Officer.” 

Toi Ohomai | Te Pūkenga 

Associate Dean Dan Taylor says 

the institute values its kaimahi 

Toi Ohomai | Te Pūkenga Associate Dean Dan Taylor (centre) accepts the Employer of the Year Award at the 2023 Tohu Awards. 

(staff), and says it was humbling 

to accept the award on behalf of 

the organisation. 

“As Eli’s line manager, I was 

able to accept this award. I’ve 

seen first-hand Eli’s dedication 

and commitment, not only to Toi 

Ohomai but also in his role as 

a Cadet Force Officer. It’s great 

that we have been acknowledged 

for our attentive and responsive 

approach to the needs of our 

kaimahi.” 

Dan says all employers who 

were nominated spoke about 

people who have volunteer roles 

outside of their main employment 

and the exceptional value 

they bring to their respective 

organisations. 

Encouraging volunteer work 

and social contributions, Dan 

says, leads to diligent, high-performing 

employees in the 

workplace. 

“They bring these skills and 

their values into our organisation, 

which is hugely valuable.” 

Toi Ohomai | Te Pūkenga’s 

recognition as the New Zealand 

Cadet Force Officer Employer of 

the Year highlights the institution’s 

commitment to fostering 

positive relationships between 

employers and members of the 

Reserve and Cadet Force Officers, 

contributing significantly 

to the overall effectiveness of the 

Defence Force. 

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Great Culture, Strong Financials, Great Reputation 

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With a rich history dating back to its 

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business’s commitment to excellence. 

Vendors are committed to providing 

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· Strong financial results 

· Cash surplus approx $969k 

· Wide range of services 

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Import & Distribution, Highly Profitable, Potentially Relocatable 

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Established in 2018, this thriving business 

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for a niche sector in the leisure market. 

Since then it has expanded its range with 

a selection of quality products and now 

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· Mainly B2B 

· Simple to operate 

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$1,300,000 


Roger Brockelsby 027 919 5478 

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Price Reduction! Long Established & Reputable Manufacturing 

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Mike Fraser 021 932 633 

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Beachfront 5 Star Accommodation Business & FH Apartment 


Ohope Beach Resort - a 31 apartment 

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· 2 bed/2 bath owner apartment 

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Home and Income! $1,070,000 


· Immaculate 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home 

· Guaranteed income from management rights 

· Close to beach and shops 

· Flexible hours ensure a great lifestyle 


Nols Bertram 027 238 1450 

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Well Established Jeweller $528,000 


· Specialising in Jewellery and watch repairs 

· Well setup store with affordable Rent 

· Earning $165,000 per year 

· Room to grow 


Neil Cammell 027 2133 100 

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Profitable Gift Store $390,000 

Whakatane 

· Presentables Gift Store in the heart of 

Whakatane 

· Purpose built store in main shopping area 

· Wide range of products 

· Large customer following from all over BOP 


Ray Owens 027 840 9274 

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Automotive Workshop $225,000 

Tauranga 

· Specialises in euro cars 

· Excellent tools & equipment 

· Healthy earnings to owner 

· Large customer base 


Nols Bertram 027 238 1450 

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Event Equipment & Marquee Hire $420,000 

Tauranga 

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· Events range from weddings and other events 

· Includes all furniture and other items required 

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Wai Ariki lauded with highest 

honour at design awards 

Rotorua’s new luxury spa, Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa, 

has been nationally recognised for its eye-catching, 

innovative design, winning three accolades in this year’s 

Designers Institute Awards. 

When planning first began nearly 

a decade ago, Pukeroa Lakefront 

Holdings Limited (PLHL), which 

owns Wai Ariki, laid down a design wero 

(challenge) for the creation of a culturally, 

architecturally, experiential and beautiful 

space. 

Architecture and design firm, RCG, 

responded to that wero and its innovation 

and efforts have now been rewarded with 

a prestigious Purple Pin for Best Overall 

Design in the Spatial Section, and two Gold 

Pins in the Public, Private & Institutional, 

and Healthcare and Wellbeing categories. 

The Gold Pin is coveted as it represents 

the winner in each category, but it’s only 

the best piece of design in each discipline 

that is given the supreme Purple Pin, being 

held up as work that raises the bar of 

New Zealand design. 

PLHL Chairman, David Tapsell, says the 

design acknowledgements are a testament 

to the truly unique space RCG helped create 

for Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa. 

“When manuhiri walk through the 

doors at Wai Ariki, they have a visual and 

sensory experience, with the physical 

space combining the area’s geothermal 

legacy with our authentic Ngāti Whakaue 

story. There is nowhere else in the world 

where one can have that same experience 

and RCG have done a fantastic job of bringing 

our vision to life. 

“Wai Ariki is a fitting and striking addition 

to the newly transformed Rotorua 

lakefront. We are proud to be playing a key 

role in lifting Rotorua’s tourism offering, 

which is critical for our city’s build-back 

after Covid. Wai Ariki has now been recognised 

at the highest level by Designers 

Institute and all of Rotorua can be proud 

of this.” 

The physical design of Wai Ariki Hot 

Springs and Spa is inspired by Ngāti 

Whakaue cultural narratives. It is infused 

with local whakairo (Māori carvings) and 

reflects the volcanic colour palette of the 

rohe. RCG Director, John Lenihan says 

the team is delighted and humbled by the 

Designers Institute Awards. 

“This kaupapa means so much to PLHL 

and Ngāti Whakaue – and all of us as a 

result. We have worked with Pukeroa 

Oruawhata for 30 years and the development 

of Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa is 

a significant highlight in that longstanding 

relationship. It was fully guided by them 

and Ngāti Whakaue cultural experts as 

mana whenua. 

“Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa is 

unique globally and is already getting significant 

worldwide attention. We are literally 

ecstatic that the development has been 

officially acknowledged in this way,” says 

Mr Lenihan. 

Wai Ariki offers two exclusive spa areas 

– Te Āhuru Mōwai (Sanctuary), a premium 

space for bathing and spa treatments, and 

Wai Whakaora (Restorative Journey) a cultural 

thermal wellness experience. Both 

have been specifically designed to deliver 

maximum well-being benefits, building on 

the centuries-old healing practices of Ngāti 

Whakaue. 

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Business confidence in 

Rotorua soars by nearly 50% 

– promising trend revealed 

RotoruaNZ, in collaboration with the Rotorua Business 

Chamber, has released the fourth Rotorua Business Pulse 

Survey results, highlighting the evolving sentiments of 

Rotorua’s business leaders. 

The latest survey reveals a significant 

upswing in forward-looking business 

confidence, with an impressive 

increase of nearly 50% compared with the 

April survey findings. This surge in confidence 

reflects Rotorua’s resilience and 

adaptability, showcasing a positive trajectory 

for the local business community. 

The Rotorua Business Pulse initiative 

continues to serve as a key barometer for 

assessing the health of the local economy, 

providing a valuable platform for business 

leaders to convey their insights. The most 

recent survey, conducted from October 

18th to November 5th, saw active participation 

from 108 Rotorua-based businesses, 

contributing to the dataset underpinning 

these findings. 

Andrew Wilson, Chief Executive of 

Rotorua NZ, said “the findings from this 

survey reaffirm Rotorua’s potential as a 

thriving place to do business. This surge 

in confidence reflects the resilience of our 

local businesses and their readiness to 

embrace opportunities in an ever-evolving 

economic landscape.” 

Bryce Heard, Chief Executive of the 

Rotorua Chamber, echoed these sentiments, 

saying, “The survey results are a 

testament to the collaborative spirit of 

our business community and its ability to 

adapt to changing circumstances. Rotorua 

is poised for growth and prosperity, and 

this renewed confidence is a clear indication 

of that.” 

As part of this initiative, a comprehensive 

dashboard has been developed to 

provide a user-friendly platform for stakeholders 

to access and analyse the survey 

data. This resource will help community 

leaders, businesses, and policymakers 

make informed decisions and monitor 

Rotorua’s economic pulse. 

Notable trends highlighted in the survey 

include an optimistic outlook for the 

next year, likely driven by factors such as 

recent government changes, a heightened 

focus on reputation rebuilding for talent 

attraction, increased infrastructure investment, 

and a significant uptick in the adoption 

of AI technology by local businesses, 

with a growth rate of over 50%. 

These positive findings underscore 

Rotorua’s resilience and potential for 

growth, setting the stage for a prosperous 

future for the local business community. 

“We know that CSR is increasingly 

important to companies and their 

employees. Acorn offers tailored solutions 

to help local businesses achieve 

their corporate giving goals,” says 

Emily Goulding, Acorn’s Corporate & 

Community Giving Manager. 

“There are so many ways to give 

through Acorn: corporate scholarships, 

employee workplace giving, corporate 

endowment funds... It’s all about boosting 

office morale and showing your 

company cares about the communities 

you work in.” 

As an established funder in the 

WBOP with 20 years’ local expertise, 

the Acorn Foundation has its ‘finger 

on the pulse’ and can give useful guidance 

when it comes to choosing charity 

recipients. 

“At Acorn, we do all the due diligence 

as part of our annual funding 

round, where we assess dozens of funding 

applications from local charities. 

So, we know which local groups are 

doing the most vital work in our communities,” 

says Emily. 

SPONSORED 

CORPORATE GIVING MADE EASY 

WITH THE ACORN FOUNDATION 

More than 14 local businesses – large and small – are 

choosing to give back to the community via the 

WBOP’s Community Foundation: the Acorn Foundation. 

Why? Because it’s local giving, for local causes. 

For several years in a row, Acorn has 

facilitated charitable donations from 

local branches of ASB Bank and Craigs 

Investment Partners at Christmas. 

“Though we find that Christmas is 

a popular time of the year for companies 

to donate to charity, we 

facilitate corporate giving 

year-round,” says Emily. 

“I would encourage any 

company with a community 

focus to contact 

Acorn Foundation to 

discuss how we could 

help your business 

implement a corporate 

giving scheme that 

suits you.” 

Emily Goulding, 

Acorn’s 

Corporate & 

Community 

Giving 

Manager. 

Learn more at: acornfoundation.org.nz/corporate-giving 

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2023: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 

As 2023 draws to a close there remains a pervasive feeling of uncertainty and nervousness 

amongst Bay of Plenty businesspeople. There are on-going challenges from inflation, high 

interest rates, an uncertain property market, labour shortages and global political instability. 

Over the last 12 months we have provided 

readers with on-going analysis 

of the performance of the local business 

economy, reporting the facts, and providing 

expert opinion. 

As in 2022, for every challenge that 2023 

has thrown at us, the local business community 

has adapted to not only survive, but to 

thrive. 

In this BBN 2023 Year in Review, we step 

through the highlights of the last 12 months 

of Bay of Plenty Business News as we look 

forward hopefully to a 2024 that will bring 

more certainty and stability. 

ALAN NEBEN is a Mount Maunganui 

local and an experienced New Zealand 

publisher. He can be reached at 

alan@bopbusinessnews.co.nz 

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JANUARY 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 1 

THE SHINE 

COLLECTIVE: 

CELEBRATING 

10 YEARS – P5 


ECONOMIC 

PROSPECTS 

IN 2023 

R 

By DAVID PORTER 

eserve Bank of New Zealand Governor 

Adrian Orr’s gloomy warnings 

late last year saw him talking up the 

prospects of a dismal 2023 economy and 

stressing the need to curb inflation. 

But it wasn’t just a call for businesses 

to slow things down: he also warned the 

government to ease back on spending. 

That will be difficult to do for the 

Labour Government when all the recent 

polls suggest it will face real problems 

winning the next election, and it has committed 

to maintaining generous spending to 

avoid defeat. The dismal economic predictions 

have also highlighted the country’s 

labour problems, and given the opposition 

parties a renewed opportunity to pitch their 

wares for the next election. 

It is ironic of course that Orr himself 

could be considered a major cause of the 

The chances are growing 

that the Reserve Bank 

has over-cooked policy 

restraint after keeping 

things too easy.” 

– Tony Alexander 

inflation problem, given the government 

effectively encouraged him to relax spending 

controls to reduce pain for the beleaguered, 

Covid 19-affected electorate. 

The reality now is that New Zealand 

inflation is estimated at 7.2 percent, well 

above what was typically considered 

extreme. 

‘WORLD-CLASS 

EXPERIENCE’ – 

TRUSTPOWER 

BAYPARK – P9 

Facing up to economic reality 

Orr appeared before Parliament’s Finance 

and Expenditure Select Committee late 

last year and effectively apologised for 

the state of interest rates, blaming the 

international situation. New Zealand had 

been buffeted by “very significant economic 

shocks” – namely Covid-19 supply 

chain disruptions and Russia’s invasion 

of Ukraine. And the bank was expecting 

well above its 1-3 percent target range, he 

acknowledged. 

Green Party MP Chlöe Swarbrick 

reportedly asked Orr if commentary suggesting 

the Reserve Bank was “deliberating 

engineering a recession” to tame inflation 

was correct. 

“We are deliberately trying to slow 

aggregate spending in the economy,” he 

responded. 

Continued on page 3 


FIRST ON THE 

SCENE: TAURANGA 

BUSINESS 

AWARDS – P13 

24 MARCH – 

2 APRIL 2023 

See page 9 

FEBRUARY 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 2 

WWW.BOPBUSINESSNEWS.CO.NZ FACEBOOK.COM/BAYOFPLENTYBUSINESSNEWS 

1 

WOMEN LEADING BAY BUSINESS 

This month, we profile some of the many women 

who are making a difference in the Bay’s business 

community. >> Pages 10-16 

cover story 

Taking the music to the people 

2 

10 

We talk to two inspirational 

local business women about 

their goal of lifting the profile 

of the Bay of Plenty Waikato 

Opus Orchestra in the 

community (see pages 10-11) 

3 

12 13 

9 

4 

5 6 

7 

8 

11 

MARCH 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 3 

THE 

BONODLEYS 

BBN Franchising columnist 

Nathan Bonney sets himself a 

new challenge for 2023. See p5 



RUNNING 100 

MILES NON-STOP: 

BBN’s Mining Business Wealth 

columnist Freddie Bennett 

considers the lessons. See p9 

ZESPRI’S 

ANNUS 

HORRIBILIS 

CONTINUES 

Kiwifruit growers have been dealt 

another body blow this summer with 

Zespri’s announcement of further 

reductions in payouts. 

Richard Rennie investigates, see page 5. 

APRIL 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 4 


EASTERN BAY POWERS UP 

PROJECT TO GROW MUSSEL SPAT 

By RICHARD RENNIE 

avid Ross CEO of Kotahi, the 

country’s largest supply chain 

Dcompany says it is not a lack 

of shipping capacity to New Zealand, 

but port capacity issues and low levels 

of labour availability across the 

supply chain impacting upon port 

operations. 

“In addition ports don’t currently 

have the extra capacity and flexibility 

to be able to absorb peaks and troughs 

in product demand or to manage 

external disruption such as the recent 

weather events. When you add these 

to a system at capacity, they tend to 

amplify the problem.” 

He welcomed the work by ports 

across the country to bring back fixed 

berthing windows for ship calls from 

March 6 to firm up scheduled arrival 

times. 

“It is good to see Port of Tauranga 

doing well to date, as evidenced by 

the queues of waiting ships dropping 

to virtually zero. However, there is 

more work to do at a network system 

level.” 

Ship numbers laid up awaiting 


Port jam likely to linger 

Congestion at Port of Tauranga and beyond bought on by capacity limits, delays to expansion and 

a busy export season threaten the flow of goods out of Bay of Plenty over coming months. 

berthing have been at near record 

highs in recent months, with Vessel 

Finder reporting as many as 17 at 

anchor at any one time earlier this 

year. 

Port reliability in New Zealand 

has been firmly in the spotlight, with 

Maersk’s head of Oceania Region 

recently reporting the region’s schedule 

reliability at 39%, lagging behind 

the rest of the world at 53%. 

But Ross said Kotahi’s data indicated 

that reliability was even lower 

for New Zealand at only 15%. 

He expected the return to fixed 

berth scheduling would also bring a 

level of disruption in the short term, 

meaning tough decisions from carriers 

to omit ports or skip sailings. 


MEETINGS | CONFERENCES | EXHIBITIONS | ENTERTAINMENT 

1: Adrienne Mikkelsen, Property Indepth. 2: Fiona McTavish, BOPRC. 3: Jade Maddox, Bloom Co. 4: Bronwyn Rhynd, CKL. 5: Paula Lines, The Law Shop. 6: Mel Lewis, Stratum Consultants. 7: Meg Jones, The Shine 

Collective. 8: Bridget Snelling, Xero New Zealand. 9: Shima Grace, Sharp Tudhope Lawyers. 10: Meg Davis, Priority One. 11: Marissa Nikora, Priority One. 12: Bronya Dean, Opus Orchestra. 13: Gillian Houser, Opus Orchestra. 




> JANUARY 2023 

Enquire Today! 

trustpowerbaypark.co.nz 

Our economic commentary team led 

2023 with their predictions for the 

economy in the year ahead – their 

views noted Reserve Bank Governor 

Adrian Orr’s strategy for slowing the 

economy at the time, and some even 

predicted a likely defeat of the Labour 

Government in the 2023 general 

election later in the year. Senior 

reporter David Porter warned of the 

dangerous impacts presented by the 

global climate crisis in his January 

Porter Report – a prophetic warning, 

given the catastrophic impacts of 

Cyclone Gabrielle which arrived a 

month later. 

> FEBRUARY 2023 



For those dinosaurs still mired in the 

thinking of old that business is a menonly 

club, BBN’s February Women 

Leading Bay Business feature edition 

pointedly dispelled the myth. The special 

report highlighted 13 women who were 

all making unique contributions to 

business in the Bay of Plenty. Watch out 

for the new crop in our February 2024 

update of Women Leading Bay Business. 

We bought the advent of open AI to the 

fore back in our February 2023 issue 

as TechTalk columnist Yvonne Blanch 

presented our first column (that we’re 

aware of) written using Chat GPT – an 

ominous sign for the future perhaps? 

> MARCH 2023 



While most stories in the March 

issue focused on the impacts 

of Cyclone Gabrielle on the 

BOP region, Business News 

journalist Richard Rennie 

looked in-depth at the effect 

on Kiwifruit growers dealt 

another body blow with 

Zespri’s announcement 

of further reductions in 

payouts. Popular Business 

News columnist Freddie 

Bennett talks through 

the lessons to be learned 

from running 100 miles 

non-stop. 

> APRIL 2023 



In April we investigated the congestion 

at Port of Tauranga bought on 

by capacity limits, delays to 

expansion and a busy export 

season and the threats this 

was posing to the flow 

of goods out of Bay of 

Plenty in 2023. We 

also announced NZ’s 

largest mass timber 

office was building 

coming to town: The 

future home of Tauranga 

City Council’s administration 

staff at 90 Devonport Road. 

MAY 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 5 


AUSTRALIA 

CHANGES 

COULD 

STRESS 

KIWI JOB 

MARKET 

PAGE 4 

China tests its 

international reach 

PAGE 5 

Best of Mercury and Trustpower to 

come together under Mercury brand 

> 

Partnering with quality clients with an array of diverse roles, candidates will not only 

find a career they love, but scope to enjoy a balanced lifestyle rich in leisure, fun, friends 

and family. 

MAY 2023 

Talent ID are strong advocates of the Bay of Plenty region and all that is on offer. 

We combine extensive local knowledge and expertise with national reach and connections. 


With demand for labour already under 

extreme pressure here in the Bay of 

Plenty, David Porter asks local business 

experts about the impact of changes 

to Australia’s policy on pathways to 

citizenship. Their predictions: the 

outcomes may not all be rosy. See page 3 

PAGE 10 

Does your bach have 

a hidden GST cost? 

Our May edition explored changes to 

Australia’s immigration rules: with 

demand for labour already under 

extreme pressure in the Bay of Plenty, 

David Porter asked local business experts 

about the impact of changes to Australia’s 

policy on pathways to citizenship. Their 

predictions were that the outcomes will 

not all be rosy. Sticking with the ANZAC 

theme, I tackled the challenging issue 

of coming to grips with holiday trading 

regulations – still confused. 

JUNE 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 6 

T 

SPECIAL 

FOCUS 

By DAVID PORTER 

he Labour Government’s recently 

announced budget contained few real 

surprises. 

In itself, that was hardly unusual – we are 

heading towards an ever-tightening national 

election campaign later this year, so perhaps 

understandably the government’s main aim 

was to exude calm. Or as Craigs Investment 

Partners’ economist Mark Lister said during a 

post-budget event analysis held in cooperation 



WEALTH 

BUILDERS 

with the Tauranga Business Chamber, to put it 

cynically, members of the government would 

like to keep their jobs. 

“It was pitched as ‘no frills’,” said Lister. 

“But it was quite stimulating. There was less 

money to spend and more debt will be issued.” 

KPMG tax partner Rob Hill, who co-hosted 

the Craigs’ analysis, added Labour seemed to be 

retaining their post-election tax policies. 

Of course strictly speaking, not all members 

of the Labour government are guaranteed 

to keep their jobs. Labour has already seen two 

50% 

defections from their allied ranks, which is 

hardly an inspiring look for a government going 

into an election. 

Put your money to work 

For ideas on putting your money to 

work and building wealth in 2023 

see our Wealth Builders feature 

pages 7-10 

BUDGET REVIEW: FEW SURPRISES 

The coming period was likely, Lister suggested, 

to be a good time to put your money to work. 

“You don’t want to buy when everything is at an 

all-time high.” 

Chartered Accountants New Zealand country 

head Peter Vial, in his summary, indicated that 

2023 

in his interpretation the Treasury was no longer 

forecasting a recession, but added that a return 

to a surplus had been deferred by one year to 

2025-26. “We were promised a ‘no frills, bread 

and butter’ Budget and that is what we have 

got,” he says. 

Dropping the $5.00 prescription charge was 

a no-brainer but let us not forget that several 

major pharmacy brands have already knocked 

off the charge in the interest of business-building; 

basically the charge is a small tax and 


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The June 2023 edition of Business News 

was a distinctly finance focused issue. 

We launched a new annual feature: 

Wealth Builders, in which we reached 

out to finance specialists across the 

region for their advice and tips for local 

businesspeople on building wealth. We 

also reviewed the Labour Government’s 

recent budget and assessed the impacts 

for local businesses, and we had a report 

from Business News journalist Richard 

Rennie on his trade trip to South Korea. 

> JUNE 2023 

YEAR 

BOOK 


SUSTAINABILITY EDITION 

AIR | LAND | SEA 

YEAR 

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CELEBRATING BAY BUSINESS | 2023 

SUSTAINABILITY EDITION 

AIR | LAND | SEA 

YEAR BOOK 2023 | 1 

> Little did we know back in January 2023 the challenges that 

would be confronting local businesses by mid-2023: inflation 

running at 6.7%, mortgage interest rates of 7.25%, unprecedented 

roading, health and housing infrastructure issues, record rainfall 

and flooding and underlying it all, a feeling of uncertainty and 

nervousness. Yet despite the uncertainties, there was a broad 

cross-section of inspiring business success stories in the Year 

Book. We are confident the winds will change – we’re living in a 

great place to harness that wind change and fly high. Yes, Kiwis 

can fly.” 

– ALAN NEBEN, PUBLISHER

J&W Quarter Page Advert.indd 1 

BBN-July-2023.indd 1 

Richard Rennie reports on Bay businesses in his 

trade delegation trip to India 

Page 5 

LIC REA 2008 

The event, organised by Fleet- 

Partners and Drive Electric, and 

held at Farmer Autovillage’s MG 

showroom, updated attendees 

on developments in the EV and 

PHEV markets, both in New Zea- 

Freddie Bennett considers how to 

create a business of superheroes 

Page 16 

land and internationally. 

Drive Electric board member 

Dean Sheed spoke to the 

approximately 100 guests about 

emerging trends and changes in 

attitude and consumer opinion 

in relation to electric vehicles in 

2023. In particular he contrasted 

the enormous growth in EV sales 

to the corresponding downturn 

See photos from Tauranga Business 

Chamber’s August BA5 

Page 21 

in demand and sales of internal 

combustion engine (ICE) 

vehicles. 

He touched on the issue of 

changing perceptions around the 

practicality of investment in electric 

vehicles in the last 12 months, 

and suggested future considerations 

for the road ahead. 

FleetPartners Director Dennis 

Kelly then addressed the 

audience looking particularly at 

trends in corporate investment 

in fleet vehicles. 

Dennis suggested although 

there are significant aspects of 

fleet EV investment that are front 

of mind for business operators 

now, there are also emerging 

> Continued on page 7 

doesn’t take ‘no’ for an answer. 

education programmes, Bernice couldn’t 

sit on her hands and look the other way. 

– a tragedy. And the more I learned, the 

more tragic and devastating it seemed. 

gets tough.” 

was brought up in the sma l town of 

Tūrangi. 

there alright. 

confronting her and her whānau which 

shocked her into action. 

result, tragica ly under-achieving; while 

my achievements were being branded 

su ce ses, the young people I was seeing 

at home in New Zealand were being 

branded as ‘failures’ and ‘problems’.” 

by OT. 

year they were supporting young people 

refe red by the Tauranga DHB an disability 

services. 

“Now the door had opened, we could 

see a tsunami was heading in our direction,” 

she reca ls. 

2021-12-28 5:31 PM 


lack of positive community interaction 

what I ca l survival/defensive mode.” 

luxurious waterfront destination 

a sist profe sionals, schools and whānau 

to understand cha lenging behaviours 

and ca l for help. 

“We decided to pilot this concept in 

an alternative education space, Baypathways. 

During our pilot w encountered 

rangatahi disengaged from their work 

who had decided their only pathway was 

jail and a life on ‘the benefit’. 

“They shared nothing of their dreams 

or aspirations, only tha they were tough/ 

hard and how drugs, alcohol and crime 

were a l they wanted to do. 

di ferently from others.” 

in their lives – and so the Whanaketanga 

Programme was born. 

BBN-August-2023.indd 1 

night, a celebration with friends and 

The Porter Report looks to responsibilities of key 

players and ongoing Israel-Palestine tensions 

Page 4 

and corporate events. 

With its delectable cuisine, captivating 

scenery, and a tentive service, it 

a lasting impre sion on every guest fortunate 

enough to partake in this extraordinary 

journey. 

Anticipated tax policy changes and their 

implications – Insights by Andrea Scatchard 

Page 11 

‘Now you’re speaking my language’: selfimprovement 

suggestions for Kiwis 

Page 22 

Join us this Christmas for delicious food, drinks and good times by the water. 

w w w. t r i n i t y w h a r f. c o . n z | e v e n t s @ t r i n i t y w h a r f. c o . n z 


BBN-September-2023.indd 1 

Alan Neben reviews the topsy-turvy year that was and 

tracks the big Business News stories in 2023 

Pages 6-7 

For the glitz and glamour from the Tompkins Wake Rotorua 

Business Awards 2023 and a full list of award winners 

Page 20-21 

Organisations ring in a swathe of changes across the Bay 

as 2023 draws to a close 

Pages 22-23 

Back row: Freddie Bennett – Titan Sky, Andrea Scatchard – Deloitte, Steven Matthews – Link Business Brokers, Lyndon Settle – Quayside Holdings, Ryan Storm – Royal Wolf, Andy Martin – Cooney Lees Morgan, 

Dr Wayne Beilby – PMG Funds. Front row: Kate Ashcroft – Copeland Ashcroft, Sarah Ashby – Jarden, Gareth Wallis – Tauranga City Council, Ezra Rentoul – Stratus Blue, Mark Wassung – Design Engine Architects. 

30/08/2023 11:46:42 am 

> www.businessnews.co.nz – STAY CONNECTED 


Last year BBN experienced what digital 

services manager Petrina Wilson called ‘an 

explosion’ in online subscriber numbers. 

“That ‘explosion’ hasn’t eased in 2023,” 

she says. “We have quality content, and the 

numbers show me that’s what our users 

demand. 

“The growth in our Business News 

subscriber base, our social channels 

engagement and our web traffic has 

continued its upward trajectory in 2023. 

“Our subscribers sure let us know our 

EDM newsletters are in demand – readers 

want to be connected, and our exceptionally 

high open rates prove it.” 

The studio design team upgraded the 

website to compliment the ‘new look’ print 

edition in October. This has proven to be a 

winner with increases to user numbers and 

page views – a great finish to 2023. 

7 

YEARS OF PROGRESS 

JULY 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 7 



Bay of Plenty Business 

News this month celebrates 

seven years of publishing. We 

had a look through the archives 

to see what we’ve covered over 

the seven years – the results 

were surprising. We also invited a 

selection of other successful Bay 

businesses to talk to us about their 

growth paths ... see pages 6-10 

AUGUST 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 8 

SEE PAGE 5 



$70M INVESTMENT A 

BOON FOR WHAKATANE 

THE NEW WAVE OF UNDER 40'S 

This month, Bay of Plenty Business News profiles a 

group of Under 40’s from various industries who are 

making their mark in the Bay of Plenty. 

SEE PAGE 9-13 

SEPTEMBER 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 9 WWW.BOPBUSINESSNEWS.CO.NZ 


DOWN TO THE WIRE 

By David Porter 

N 

ew Zealanders will go to the 

polls on 24 October in what is 

predicted to be one of the closest 

nationwide elections in the country’s 

history. 

The key concerns for Bay of 

Plenty businesses, according to our 

soundings, are that whoever wins the 

government should show strong leadership 

in such key areas as developing 

effective infrastructure to service the 

region’s continued growth. 

Tauranga Priority One chief executive 

Nigel Tutt told Bay of Plenty 

Business News (BBN) that the Bay of 

Plenty had an important role to play 

in the country. 

“But we lack the infrastructure to rate in its predictions. But as often A recent Taxpayers’ Union – Curia down 4 points to 27.1 per cent. Act 

support that – we need to make sure noted, in politics the only poll that poll report in the New Zealand Herald 

showed Labour crashing to below where most of the Labour supporters 

was on 13 per cent and the Greens – 

politicians provide the infrastructure really matters is the result on election 

we need, and to support that infrastructure,” 

he said. “Obviously that A Chinese friend of mine is cur- 

with enough support, just, to form a ruled out the Greens’ proposed wealth 

day. 

30 per cent and National and Act appear to have moved after Labour 

helps ease congestion and frees up the rently one of many people who has government. 

tax, were up 3.1 points to 12 per cent. 

need to spend all our time on travel.” been in jail without sentence for more It also showed the public re-emergence 

of NZ First leader Winston Labour, was on 2.5 per cent. Both 

Te Pati Māori, which also supports 

than a year in Hong Kong – where 

Polls narrowing 

I lived for many years – because of Peters who elevated Labour to governing 

in 2017. NZ First showed up were on 7 per cent in the leadership 

Peters and Act leader David Seymour 

their protests against mainland China’s 

heavy-handed attempts to squash above five percent. 

rankings. 

As we went to press, the most that 

could be said about the potential democracy in Hong Kong. 

There are those who feel he lost Seymour is generally seen to have 

result was that the outcome was still To reiterate a point I make in much of his political mana when he done a good job in building what was 

uncertain, with polls on who might my opinion column this month, New sided with Labour, but Peters remains basically a one seat party into a political 

force. 

lead the country essentially showing Zealand media reflects a wide range a long-time favourite of many in the 

the main parties were virtually level of views and, compared to many Bay. 

Any of these manoeuvrings might 

pegging. 

countries, casting a vote here is easy The recent poll showed National succeed and could deliver a very slim 

Election polling has become and fair. So make sure your vote up 1.6 percentage points from August majority government to either Labour 

increasingly sophisticated and accu- 

counts. 

to 34.9 per cent, while Labour was or National. Continued on page 5 

As you read this, our 12th and 

final issue of 2023, I’d like to 

take the opportunity to thank all 

our advertisers, without who we 

could not produce Bay of Plenty 

Business News every month. 

Ngā mihi nui. 

And to you our loyal business 

readers, have a safe Christmas 

and enjoy a break. We look 

forward to again bringing you 

more BOP business news in 2024. 

IP protection, simplified. 

We’ve been championing innovation since 1979. 

> 

A safe JULY pair of hands delivering outstanding 2023 

results. 

From left: Joel Murphy – Holland Beckett Law; Ash Gee – Miss Gee's Bar & Eatery; Larissa Hodgson – Trimax; Brad Walker – Property Brokers; George Jackson – James & Wells; 

Arpége Taratoa – Creative Bay of Plenty; Jeremy Sparrow – Holland Beckett Law; Paul Churchman, Xero New Zealand; Tom Rutherford – Bay of Plenty candidate for National. 

Beyond reasonable 

> doubt, AUGUST it’s the start of 


an exciting new era. 

Tauranga’s Mackenzie Elvin 

joins Tompkins Wake. 

> 

Bridging the gap. 

Quayside funds $60M motorway 

SEPTEMBER interchange, 2023 

providing much-needed 

infrastructure and regional benefit. 

jamesandwells.com 

July marked Bay of Plenty Business 

News’ seventh birthday. We scoured 

the archives to see just how much 

had changed over those seven years 

and we selected a shortlist of other 

BOP businesses whose achievements 

over the years we felt warranted 

celebration. The accompanying 

stories from The Law Shop, Enterprise 

Angels, Copeland Ashcroft and ABC 

Business Sales made interesting 

reading, and hopefully provided some 

real inspiration for the new crop of 

up-and-coming firms in 2023. 

tompkinswake.com 

The August issue announced a massive 

$70m investment decision for the 

Whakatane Mill. 

It also launched Business Under 

40s profiling a selection of highperforming 

local businesspeople under 

the age of 40. We reached out to the 

business community and asked them 

to tell us about the new generation of 

personnel in their organisations who 

are really making a difference. We 

spoke to lawyers, artists, politicians, 

entrepreneurs and others – the takeout 

message for us: the future of Bay business 

is definitely in good hands. 

www.rangiuru.co.nz 

With the October General Election 

date looming Bay of Plenty Business 

News September led with a preelection 

preview special – the front 

page headline noted that the choice of 

government would likely be, ‘Down to 

the wire’. 

We also zero’d in on transport and 

infrastructure with background stories 

on Quayside’s new Rangiuru Business 

Park development and the welcoming 

of the first goods trains at the Ruakura 

Inland Port set to transform freight 

moves across upper North Island. 



OCTOBER 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 10 

TRADE DELEGATION HOPES 


MINING BUSINESS WEALTH 

EV REVOLUTION: 

The new Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, 

from Ingham-Sears, Mount Maunganui 

n August Farmer Autovillage 

hosted a FleetPartners EV 

Ishowcase event – the Journey 

to Carbon Zero. 

With the marking of Bay of Plenty 

Business News’ seventh birthday in 

July, the team decided it was time for a 

refresh. The result: a new design, new 

recyclable paper stock, new page size, 

new Culture, People and News sections 

and a whole new feel for news stories 

in the Bay. 

Appropriately, 

the first ‘new look’ 

edition featured 

an investigation of 

electric vehicles for 

business and how 

the advances in 

EV technology are 

impacting businesses 

locally. 


WERE YOU THERE? 

EVs for business are here 

now … and they are more 

affordable and practical 

than you think 

> As the general election approaches and political parties roll out policy 

SPECIAL REPORT announcements, many of which are focused on business and the environment, 

a second wave of messaging is dominating the ad breaks: electric vehicle ads. Are electric vehicles finally a practical, 

affordable option for businesses in New Zealand? This month we investigate and ask the experts for their analysis. 

CROWD CHARGED BY EV SHOWCASE EVENT 

> OCTOBER 2023 

18 BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS November 2023 

PEOPLE 

Most people find it 

cha lenging enough to 

build a career while 

raising a family, without 

ever contemplating also 

leading a crusade to 

help the community’s 

most disadvantaged. But 

Bernice Breckon is not 

most people. 

> By ALAN NEBEN 

D 

on’t be fooled by the cheeky smile 

and the infectious laugh – this lady 

When she identified a ‘cavernous hole’ 

in her Tauranga community’s health and 

“I saw first-hand young people fa ling 

through gaps in our society. It was – it is 

“But it doesn’t need to be that way – 

we can be part of a change to help our 

young, the rangatahi of our nation, to 

not only survive, but ultimately thrive; 

we just need the wi l, the knowledge and 

the support. When there’s a need, I have 

to respond. I’m not one to do things by 

halves or to shy away when the going 

She is of Ngāti Whawhakia and Mahanga 

descent from Waikato Tainui but 

This is a person who as a mother of 

five and a grandmother of two knows 

about hardship and disadvantage; yet 

this is also a person who a the age of 41 

decided she wanted to join the gli terati 

and become a Ho lywood actre s and 

screenwriter – so she did. Doubt those 

credentials? Fact-check IMDB: yes, she’s 

It was Bernice’s personal experience 

of (litera ly) life and death cha lenges 

“Although I was on a trajectory of high 

achievement – ‘su ce s’ – I realised our 

kids, our rangitahi, were increasingly 

misunderstood, misdiagnosed and, as a 

PEOPLE 

> PROFILE 

New Page Macrae 

CEO focuses on 

a people centric 

culture. 

Page 20 

CULTURE 

> AN INSIDER’S GUIDE 

Tourism Bay of 

Plenty previews 

sumptuous delights 

on offer in the Bay. 

Page 18 

> BUSINESS PROFILE TE RATONGA POUMANAAKI 

BERNICE BRECKON 

THE HUMAN DYNAMO 

WHO CHARGED 

FROM AOTEAROA TO 

HOLLYWOOD... 

AND BACK AGAIN 

Te Ratonga Poumanaaki 

In 2020 she started a company to work 

with Oranga Tamariki (OT) providing 

care and protection for kids with 

extreme highly complex behaviours, disabilities 

and neurodiversity. Her organisation, 

Te Rotonga Poumanaaki (TRP) 

supported kids in need, 24 hours a day, 

7 days a week in hotel rooms provided 

By 2021 she began working with the 

Ministry of Education’s Intensive Wraparound 

Service supporting rangatahi 

with mentoring. By th end of the that 

“By mid-2022 we were focusing on 

rangatahi who were disengaged and 

finding it di ficult to learn in a neurotypical 

environment; this group was 

often excluded from mainstream schools 

because of their behaviour. Often this 

indicated potential trauma, diagnosed 

or undiagnosed conditions, criminal 

o fending (or at risk of criminal o fending), 

anti-social behaviours with peers, 

> When there’s a need, I have 

to respond … and I’m not 

one to do things by halves 

or to shy away when the 

goin gets tough.” 

and a tremendously distorted view of the 

school environment and a l it represents; 

rangatahi in thi space are operating in 

flight, fright, fight and or flock mode – 

At TRP’s one-year anniversary Bernice 

presented The Gap – an approach to 

learning ca led Neurodiverse Individualised 

Learning (NIL). NIL is designed to 

T 

“Each se sion we were able to identify 

what worked and what didn’t. We 

discovered early on they were not interested 

in schoolwork, so we opted to focus 

them on ‘themselves’, their we lbeing 

and to understand who they are, how 

they think, why they think that way and 

acknowledgemen that it’s okay to think 

Te Rotonga Poumanaaki turned a corner 

when they found rangatahi engaging 

and participating. Focu switched to 

empowering them to navigate anything 

NOVEMBER 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 11 

PEOPLE 

> PROFILE 

Bernice Breckon – 

A human dynamo 

determined to 

make a difference 

Page 18-19 

CULTURE 

> LEISURE 

Summer time, and 

the cruisin’s easy – 

Tauranga Harbour 

beckons 

Page 23 

MIDDLE-EAST CONUNDRUM 


POST-ELECTION UPDATE 


ALAN NEBEN NOTICES 

Bay of Plenty MPs Scott Simpson, Tom Rutherford, Dana Kirkpatrick, Sam Uffinde l and Todd McClay represented the general countrywide trend to National. 

NATS DECISIVE 

CLEAN-SWEEP 

ACROSS THE BAY 

> We look at the general electorates that make up Bay of Plenty 

SPECIAL ELECTION REPORT Business News’ circulation area and talk to the successful 

candidates about the message they are taking from the results. Our political specialist David Porter also talks to local 

business leaders about the National clean-sweep and what they believe BOP businesses can expect in the term ahead. Page 6 

BOOK YOUR 

> 

CHRISTMAS FUNCTION 

AT TRINITY WHAR F 

Dinner & Harbour Cruise | The Great Gatsby Christmas Quiz 

NOVEMBER 2023 

Waterfront dining at the Restaurant | Private Function Spaces 

While BBNs September pre-election 

special headline ‘Down to the Wire’ 

suggested the results of the upcoming 

election were going to be ‘no sure 

thing’, the November post-election 

issue headline told a different story: 

CULTURE 

> TRINITY WHARF TAURANGA 

rinity Wharf, nestled in the heart 

of Tauranga, New Zealand, is a 

renowned for its stunning views and 

exquisite dining experiences. 

Among its standout o ferings is the 

Dinner and Sunset Harbour Cruise, an 

unforge table excursion that combines 

gourmet cuisine with breathtaking 

scenery. 

The tranquil su roundings and contemporary 

design of the hotel serves 

as a perfect complement to the natural 

beauty of Tauranga. 

Guests are greeted in the elegant, 

light-fi led Trinity Wharf lounge with 

a welcome drink. Fo lowed by a delicious 

bu fet menu featuring miso glazed 

salmon, slow-cooked beef sirloin with 

chimichu ri and lemon panna co ta 

with macadamia crunch. Before being 

whisked away by The Bay Explorer from 

Trinity Wharf’s very own pontoon. 

The intimate atmosphere of the cruise 

a lows guests to connect with the natural 

beauty of the region. The changing 

hues of the sunset paint a mesmerising 

backdrop for th evening, creating 

an ambience that is both romantic and 

awe-inspiring. 

The Trinity Wharf Dinner and Sunset 

Harbour Cruise is ideal for a variety of 

o casions. Whether it be a romantic date 

November 2023 BAY OF PLENTY BUSINESS NEWS 23 

> DINNER & SUNSET HARBOUR CRUISE 

Enjoy a night ou to remember thi summer season 

with Trinity Wharf’s Dinner and Harbour Cruise! 

ABOARD FOR A CRUISY NIGHT 

family, or special event, this experience 

caters to a l. The cruise’ serene se ting 

and impe cable service make it a popular 

choice for girls’ nights, anniversaries, 

promises an evening that wi l be cherished 

for years to come. It’s an opportunity 

to savour the beauty of New Zealand’s 

Bay of Plenty in a way that leaves 

“NATS DECISIVE 

CLEAN-SWEEP 

ACROSS THE 

BAY”. Feedback 

from Business 

News readers was 

overwhelmingly 

positive – they 

loved the new 

design and 

particularly the 

People and Culture 

sections. 

DECEMBER 2023 VOLUME 7: ISSUE 12 

BBN 2023: YEAR IN REVIEW 


ROTORUA 2023 BUSINESS AWARDS 


NEW APPOINTMENTS 

BUSINESS LEADERS 

REVIEW 2023/2024 

> Each December, Bay of Plenty Business News sits down with with members of the business 

SPECIAL FOCUS community and asks them to talk about their experiences of the current environment. In this 

December’s Thought Leaders edition we hear from 12 prominent business people as they consider the prospects for their own 

businesses, their industry sectors and for the business community as a whole in 2023/2024. See pages 8-19. 

WE WANT YOU! 

> 

TO BE PART OF 100 PEOPLE MAGAZINE 2024 

BOOK YOUR PROFILE IN THE 2024 EDITION NOW FROM AS LITTLE AS $295 + GST 

Booking deadline Friday, February 16, 2024 | Publishing March 2024 

DECEMBER 2023 

Don’t 

miss 

out 

RECRUITING NOW! 

For more information, please get in touch info@bopbusinessnews.co.nz 


As you will probably have noticed, the 

Thought Leaders issue is back again this 

month. We’ve changed things up again 

this year for the December issue. We’ve 

said to our regular columnists, “take a 

break this month”, and we’ve focused the 

issue almost exclusively on what we term 

Thought Leaders. 

As 2023 comes to a close Bay of Plenty 

Business News has focused on industry 

sector leaders and their thoughts on 

where they see their industry, their 

business and the Bay of Plenty business 

community going in 2024 in addition 

to reflecting on the year that’s been 

2023. We think you’ll find their thoughts 

interesting. 

(Don’t worry, the columnists will be 

back in January). 

2024 

NEW YEAR, 

NEW PEOPLE, 

NEW INSPIRATION 

100 PEOPLE Behind Bay Business – 

Bay of Plenty Business News’ newest 

magazine title which launched in 

2023, is due to hit the market again 

with the second edition in 2024. 

The magazine profiles the people 

behind Bay business in an intelligent, 

insightful and inspiring way so that 

readers can learn more about them, 

their expertise, their experience 

and their business. Look out for 100 

PEOPLE Behind Bay Business 2024, 

coming your way soon. 

> “We’re excited to tell these 

stories. This magazine 

offers a great opportunity 

for everyone to find out 

more about the people 

behind our most successful 

businesses. It’s quite a 

unique concept – I think 

it’s going to be a real 

winner again in 2024.” 

 

– PETE WALES, 

BUSINESS DIRECTOR


SHIPPING CONTAINERS 

Having greater capacity in a strategic and 

thriving hub like Tauranga ensures customers 

have access to the right product at the right time to 

meet their needs and ensures quick and efficient 

deployment of shipping containers.” 

The new Royal Wolf site, located at 353 Taurikura Drive in the Tauriko Business Estate. 

Growing population and 

buoyant local economy drive 

shipping container demand 

Ongoing regional growth, construction and 

infrastructure activity, and hints of optimism as 

2023 ends are key factors driving demand for 

shipping container products in Bay of Plenty. 

Shipping containers changed 

the way the world did business 

more than 60 years 

ago, and these big steel boxes 

continue to support and provide 

innovative solutions across a 

broad range of sectors. 

From refrigerated containers 

and dry storage through to dangerous 

goods units and portable 

buildings for the construction 

industry, local businesses are 

looking for the cost benefits and 

increased efficiencies shipping 

containers provide. 

They are using shipping containers 

for a wide range of purposes. 

Containerised offices are 

being used widely across many 

infrastructure, construction, and 

building projects around Bay of 

Plenty. Hoardings, containerised 

walkways that create safe pedestrian 

access around tight footprint 

construction projects, are 

also in constant demand. 

There are a range of other uses 

from refrigeration containers to 

store frozen or chilled products 

for supermarkets, events, and 

festivals, through to containers 

for the primary sector and manufacturing 

industry. 

Strategic advantage 

Royal Wolf expanded its operation 

in Bay of Plenty this year to 

meet increased demand for hire 

products and self-storage as the 

region’s population continues to 

grow. 

The new Royal Wolf site, 

located at 353 Taurikura Drive 

in the Tauriko Business Estate, 

has significant capacity to meet 

growing demand including a 

dedicated 24/7 self-storage facility 

to address the need for extra 

storage. 

Having greater capacity in a 

strategic and thriving hub like 

Tauranga ensures customers 

have access to the right product 

to meet their needs and ensures 

quick and efficient deployment 

of containers. 

State of the art selfstorage 

facility 

The new Bay of Plenty self-storage 

facility sets a new benchmark 

for Royal Wolf’s New Zealand and 

Australia operation, with 24/7 pin 

code access and units ranging in 

size from 10 to 20 feet as well as 

20-foot refrigeration containers. 

Statistics NZ data from October 

2022 shows Bay of Plenty’s 

population growth is driven by 

increases in the Western Bay of 

Plenty area and Tauranga city, 

which saw the highest population 

growth among all urban centres 

in New Zealand. 

While population growth has 

RYAN STORM, the Bay of Plenty Branch 

Manager for Royal Wolf, a United Rentals 

company that specialises in shipping 

containers, and Business Development 

Manager JESSICA CRAMB, possess 

both the expertise and container 

solutions to solve various business 

challenges for customers. 

levelled off in 2023, bringing it 

in line with national levels, it 

continues to create demand for 

self-storage container options 

for local businesses and homeowners 

who don’t have space 

to keep a shipping container, or 

other storage solutions, on their 

property. 

For example, a 20-foot Wolf 

Lock container when fully loaded 

holds the equivalent of a standard 

three bedroom home. 

People are storing everything 

from overflow products from 

retail outlets, through to household 

items where a family has 

run out of space at home, or they 

are moving house and need extra 

storage space for a temporary 

period. 

Wider range, greater 

capacity 

There are a greater variety of container 

products on the ground in 

Bay of Plenty than ever before to 

meet the increased demand from 

across a wide range of industries 

including infrastructure, government, 

and building and construction, 

through to retail, agri-business, 

intermodal and events. 

Royal Wolf also supply to community 

groups, local grassroots 

organisations, and sporting clubs 

with container products to support 

the work they do. 

Customers in Bay of Plenty 

also have greater access to 

Royal Wolf’s innovative container 

products, including the 

award-winning Wolf Lock Safety 

shipping container, exclusive to 

Royal Wolf and Site Hub, a fully 

self-contained work site solution. 

Powered by renewable 

energy, the Site Hub can be set 

up quickly and made operational 

without the need for external 

infrastructure. It helps to make 

operations more efficient and 

provides significant cost savings 

for businesses. 

The Tauranga site will also 

undertake highly specialised 

container modifications to meet 

customer’s bespoke needs. 

Taking local business 

to next level 

It’s key to collaborate with customers 

to support their needs. 

Royal Wolf continues to develop 

and supply innovative container 

solutions that help our customers 

do everything from reducing 

costs through to gaining a 

competitive advantage in their 

business. 

Royal Wolf takes a design-led 

approach to transforming traditional 

shipping containers into a 

diverse array of products. Much 

of this innovation is driven by 

what our customers want and 

need from a container. They are 

not only helping us to develop 

new products but to continuously 

enhance existing products. 

With over 28 years of experience 

and company operated 

locations throughout New Zealand 

and Australia, Royal Wolf is 

proud to be Australasia’s largest 

provider of shipping containers 

for hire and sale, along with 

specialised shipping container 

modifications. 

Speak to our New Zealand 

team at 0800 266 824 or visit 

www.royalwolf.co.nz to learn 

more.


ARCHITECT – URBAN DESIGN 

Design Engine Architects 

A blue-sky vision for the Tauranga of tomorrow 

2 

3 

MARK WASSUNG, 

Architect 

Accepting “more of the 

same” in Tauranga’s urban 

design spaces at such a crucial 

time in the city’s development 

history is furthest from the mind 

of Design Engine Architects directors 

Mark and Abigail Wassung. 

After seven years based in Tauranga 

having moved over the hill 

from Hamilton, they are excited 

about what Tauranga city could 

become in the coming decade, 

and the role Design Engine can 

play in shaping that future. 

Mark envisions Tauranga and 

Hamilton as one city in the next 

10 years, connected by high-speed 

rail with passenger train stations 

through a new Kaimai Tunnel 

that is multimodal ie. for trains, 

trucks, cars and cyclists/pedestrians, 

connected to Tauranga Connect 

multimodal transport network 

with buses, trains, ferries 

and cycle routes, plus two new 

four lane bridges high enough 

to allow ferries under, to replace 

the existing Turret Road bridge 

and Maungatapu bridge to enable 

better flow across the roading 

network. 

“As a company we have always 

looked outside the usual boundaries 

of conventional design, we are 

more about the ‘what if’ rather 

than the ‘what is’, and never has 

1 

1. The New Consult 365 Papamoa Clinic medical centre open 24/7. 2. Tauranga “Kupenga,” a cable car transport 

network. 3. High-End Residential Beach House. 4. Modular, prefabricated smart solar bus shelters design. 

the city been better poised to benefit 

from this sort of thinking,” 

says Mark. 

Design Engine’s portfolio of 

work spans the Bay of Plenty and 

Waikato, comfortably encompassing 

a range of projects as varied 

as a thermal and mineral water 

resort, transport hub, ocean terminal, 

train station, a medical 

centre, eco housing subdivision, 

10,000 m2 super workshop/solar 

farm and a multi-generation family 

beach home. 

The ease of working between 

different design functions and 

regions is matched to Design 

Engine incorporating many of the 

leading-edge concepts and technology 

into their building designs. 

The new Papamoa Consult 365 

Clinic medical centre open 24/7 

with 8-minute wait times, highlights 

Design Engine’s emphasis 

upon place and people in its 

design. 

Drawing strongly off its seaside 

locale, the centre’s design 

touchpoints have captured the 

beach that plays such a big part in 

the lives of so many of its patients. 

Flowing wave forms, islands, 

trees, and green walls are visual 

cues for patients and visitors to 

enhance movement through the 

clinic, while a shell shaped area 

defines the reception area and 

waiting zones are defined by 

beach shaped flowing form areas. 

“This is a prototype design that 

we can see being applied elsewhere 

in the Bay of Plenty, it is a 

visually appealing, bold, colourful 

design that provides a calming, 

comfortable and safe sanctuary.” 

In the nuts-and-bolts reality 

of building construction, Design 

Engine is increasingly incorporating 

cutting-edge materials 

that turn buildings into smart, 

eco-friendly, energy efficient 

structures. 

Materials like paper thin 

solar cells, hydro ceramics and 

bio-based building products are 

enabling clients to sensitively 

integrate their buildings with 

their environment, minimising 

carbon footprints, and optimising 

energy efficiency. 

Design Engine took many 

of these modern materials and 

incorporated them into their 

bright solution for new city bus 

shelters in Tauranga. 

The prefabricated smart solar 

bus shelters design takes a modular, 

relocatable approach to the 

structure, with a solar powered 

unit to light up signs, timetables, 

and security cameras. 

Design Engine has also 

designed a small 20-seat electric 

bus that provides fast, frequent, 

reliable, and affordable transport. 

Often the smartest and most 

commercially sensible move 

when seeking a more modern 

facility is to adapt an existing 

building, upgrading it to meet the 

environmental, economic and 

community expectations that go 

with modern design. 

Design Engine has the skills 

to capture an old building’s 

strengths to leverage it into a new 

lease on life. “Adaptive reuse” can 

help reduce the waste generated 

through demolition and see an old 

building re-purposed and back 

into a new life cycle far quicker 

than opting for the expense and 

time taken in building a new one. 

Design Engine’s DNA has 

blue sky thinking unapologetically 

embedded within it. This 

goes beyond just the buildings 

they have worked with clients 

on, to include a number of proposals 

promoting alternative 

means of travel reducing reliance 

upon private cars, options 

that stretch beyond the usual 

definitions of “public transport.” 

This has included the Tauranga 

“Kupenga,” a cable car transport 

network running across the harbour 

to Bayfair, and up to downtown 

Mount Maunganui. 

Kupenga would remove dozens 

of vehicles off the road and 

provide a unique public transport 

solution for the city. 

“We see huge opportunities 

for intensification of living in 

the Tauranga city area in coming 

years. This obviously includes the 

Cameron Road area, but could 

also include the Maungatapu Peninsula, 

with its unparalleled views 

and proximity to the city, it just all 

has to be linked up better.” 

Taking the latest in design technology 

and materials, creating 

buildings that respect the people 

and the environment they exist 

for and within, means Design 

Engine is poised to play a crucial 

part in shaping the Tauranga of 

tomorrow, creating a liveable city 

for all the generations choosing it 

as their home. 

4 

CULTURAL CENTRE 

CONNECTIVITY | SUSTAINABILITY 

COLLABORATION | SYNERGY 

DESIGN ENGINE is a Tauranga 

based group of architects, urbanists, 

and inventors working on 

transformational projects throughout 

Aotearoa. We can assist you 

with concept designs and ideas that 

can prepare you and your business 

to achieve maximum sustainable 

growth, future proofing and creating 

an environment that people want to 

live, work and play in. We want to 

be associated with companies that 

are making positive change. 

COMMERCIAL | TOURISM 

CULTURAL | INFRASTRUCTURE 

MEDICAL | 3D PRINTING 

DESIGNER HOMES 

www.designengine.co.nz 

CONTACT MARK WASSUNG 021 138 3739 mark@designengine.co.nz


BUSINESS BROKERS 

Preparing for 

a successful 

business exit 

In the looming landscape of the business world, a 

wave of change is on the horizon as the baby boomer 

generation prepares to retire, flooding the market 

with businesses for sale. This impending surge not 

only raises concerns about the potential devaluation 

of businesses but also hints at a challenging and 

protracted sales process for many. In response to 

this, the pivotal role of preparing or “grooming” 

a business for sale has gained unprecedented 

significance, promising a crucial impact on the 

success and positivity of the outcome. 

For countless business owners, 

the decision to sell 

marks the culmination of 

years of unwavering personal 

dedication and effort. A successful 

exit not only signifies a financial 

milestone but often paves the 

way for a contented and fulfilling 

retirement. 

Strategic preparation or 

grooming ahead of the sale 

becomes paramount in maximizing 

a business’s efficiency, earning 

potential, structural integrity, 

and overall presentation. 

Neglecting this process, which is 

unfortunately a common oversight, 

can lead to missed opportunities 

and suboptimal sale prices. 

While every business is 

unique, there are fundamental 

and straightforward steps that 

owners can adopt to ensure they 

secure the highest possible sale 

price. It is crucial to recognise 

that every business owner will 

eventually exit their business, 

and the key is to exit on one’s own 

terms rather than as a reaction to 

unforeseen circumstances. 

Step 1: Define Your 

“Walk Away” Number 

The first step in preparing your 

business for sale is to establish 

your “walk away” number. 

Whether driven by concerns 

about legacy, a smooth transition 

to family or management, 

or meeting financial retirement 

goals, consulting with a financial 

planner and a professional business 

broker is recommended. 

They can assess your current situation 

and help you identify the 

financial threshold at which you 

can comfortably exit. 

Step 2: Seek 

Professional Advice 

Don’t hesitate to seek professional 

advice early on in the process. 

Engage with local business 

brokers, accountants, or lawyers 

who can guide you through 

the preparation process. Their 

expertise can be invaluable in 

STEVEN MATTHEWS, 

LINK Business 

Brokers, Tauranga 

navigating the complexities of 

selling a business. 

Step 3: Get Your 

Accounts in Order 

Potential buyers are deterred 

by poorly maintained accounts. 

Ensure your financial records 

are in top-notch condition, accurately 

reflecting your business’s 

financial health. This step will 

prove beneficial during the 

appraisal and due diligence 

processes. 

Step 4: Make Yourself 

Dispensable 

Avoid the common mistake of 

being indispensable to your 

business. If you’ve named 

your company after yourself, 

take steps to ensure that your 

role can be seamlessly transferred. 

Buyers are wary of businesses 

overly reliant on the 

founder, and making yourself 

dispensable enhances the business’s 

appeal. 

Step 5: Lock in Your 

Employees 

As an extension of making yourself 

dispensable, focus on grooming 

and retaining key employees. 

Encourage them to take on more 

responsibilities, creating a team 

that can seamlessly operate the 

business post-sale. 

Step 6: Put a Team in 

Place 

During the sales process, maintain 

a strong team to ensure the 

business remains stable. Transactional 

hiccups often occur 

when owners neglect day-to-day 

operations, causing concerns for 

potential buyers. 

Step 7: Presentation 

While numbers are critical, the 

emotional aspect of a transaction 

should not be overlooked. Buyers 

make decisions based on their 

feelings about a business. Ensure 

your premises and overall business 

appearance radiate success 

and professionalism. 

Each of these steps aims to 

instil confidence in potential buyers, 

portraying your business as 

solid, well-structured, profitable, 

and more attractive than others 

on the market. In the dynamic 

landscape of business sales, proactive 

preparation is not just a 

choice; it’s a necessity for achieving 

a successful and lucrative 

exit. 

LINK Bay of Plenty has accomplished 

over 1,000 successful local 

business transactions, establishing 

ourselves as the largest and 

most prosperous brokerage in the 

Bay. If you are contemplating the 

sale of your business in the present 

or upcoming future, feel free 

to reach out to us. We offer a complimentary, 

obligation-free, and 

completely confidential consultation 

with one of our specialised 

business brokers. 

Seize the chance to enjoy the 

fruits of your hard work and 

ensure a successful exit. Connect 

with us today. 

Curious to know the 

value of your business? 

After years of investing blood, sweat and tears into your business 

you are probably curious about what it’s worth. 

In just 2 minutes you can calculate an estimated value of your business with our Business Value Appraisal calculator. 

Find out more at linkbusiness.co.nz/business-value-calculator-bop 

All LINK NZ offices are licensed REAA 2008 

Thinking of selling? 

Start here with a confidential call. 

0800 225 999 

L I N K B U S I N E S S . C O . N Z


INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 

What’s the future for your IT? 

Virtually every business uses technology, whether it’s as minimal as an app on your cell phone, tablet or 

computer, or a suite of applications used by an office full of people with computers and devices. As a business 

leader, one of the many decisions you must make is how to ensure your IT infrastructure is improving and 

protecting your business. No matter your requirements, you must consider how you use technology in your 

business, and how it can be utilised to both secure and enhance your processes and efficiencies. 

So what is in the future for your IT? 

Investment 

Investing in technology now 

will inevitably reduce downtime 

in the future. 

Electronics are not forever. 

We know this in our personal 

lives when cell phones die, or 

laptops stop working. This fact 

is even more true in a business. 

Long before a computer bites the 

dust, it will begin to raise problems 

such as running slowly or 

critical applications crashing. 

Each of these problems is 

reducing productivity for the 

staff member using the device, 

and that downtime is effectively 

lost money. Much like a car at the 

end of its life, you must decide 

when it is no longer viable to 

keep throwing good money after 

bad, and to just replace it. Having 

a device replacement plan 

helps ensure you’ve budgeted in 

advance for these costs. 

The same applies to your 

IT infrastructure. Things like 

routers, servers and wireless 

access points must be replaced 

on a schedule – albeit a much 

longer-term schedule to avoid 

unexpected downtime. If a piece 

of core infrastructure fails, the 

impact is considerably greater 

than a single computer. 

Prioritising technology spend 

can sometimes be challenging, 

and it can be tempting to delay 

the investment until your hand 

is forced. The risk with that 

approach is once you reach that 

stage, you will have already 

lost productivity through inefficient 

systems. You then have the 

lost time and un-needed stress 

caused by hurriedly finding new 

equipment. Building ongoing 

technology investment into your 

budget will help you avoid these 

problems and give you the best 

returns in the long run. 

Innovation and 

Automation 

Innovation can seem scary. 

When you are changing business 

processes you are stepping away 

from the known and into the 

unknown, and even with extensive 

testing and pilot groups 

there is still risk associated with 

the change. However, researching 

and automating new processes 

is one way that your business 

can remain competitive in 

its industry. 

How often do you review your 

daily tasks and consider whether 

they could be streamlined? 

Administrative work is necessary 

but expensive. The best way 

to mitigate the cost of this work is 

to review and improve processes. 

You can apply innovative new 

tools and automate time-consuming 

tasks to reduce the financial 

burden of this work. Obviously 

not all work can be handled by 

a computer, but with the advent 

of AI tools, more and more tasks 

can be automated. By implementing 

innovative new ideas you can 

free your people to do what they 

do best and make your business 

remarkable. 

Technology ultimately brings 

opportunity, and by training your 

people with new tools you can 

elevate them to help them keep 

up with the changing times and 

challenges they face. 

Cybersecurity 

Cybersecurity is a buzz word in 

business these days, but it is so 

much more than that. It’s a huge 

part of ensuring your business 

remains safe. Therefore it needs 

to be better understood and fully 

embraced rather than just talked 

about. 

CERT NZ reports that New 

Zealand business have faced a 

combined financial loss of over 

$20m in 2022 due to cybercrime 

alone! There are a variety of steps 

that you can take to help protect 

yourself from cybercrime, such 

as implementing a managed EDR 

solution, enforcing MFA on all 

user accounts, requiring device 

encryption, and implementing 

more stringent email security 

requirements. These are just 

some of the things that you can 

implement to avoid falling victim 

to cybercrime. 

Business Continuity 

Disaster Recovery 

Business Continuity Disaster 

Recovery or BCDR planning is 

crucial for ensuring that if the 

worst does happen, you have a 

plan on how to continue operating 

your business and how 

to recover in the shortest time 

possible. 

One component of a BCDR 

plan is backups. Having a solid 

backup strategy in place can 

allow you to recover from almost 

any event, whether it be a natural 

disaster, a major cyber event, 

a lightning storm, or even human 

error. In any instance, if you 

have secure backups, you will 

be able to recover with as little 

downtime as possible. 

Cyber Insurance policies are 

increasingly becoming necessary 

for business, and they come 

EZRA RENTOUL, 

Technical Engineer, 

Stratus Blue 

with specific requirements. 

They provide a great baseline 

for ensuring you protect yourself 

against opportunistic or 

malicious attacks. Some of the 

requirements are; implementing 

a managed EDR solution, enforcing 

MFA and configuring a robust 

backup strategy – which as mentioned 

above, are already recommended 

steps to improve your 

security posture. 

These are only a couple of the 

things to consider when creating 

a BCDR plan, but by starting with 

these two, you will be in a good 

position to manage anything that 

comes. 

Investment, Innovation, 

Cybersecurity & BCDR. If you 

don’t have one or more of these, 

then perhaps it is time to reconsider 

your IT stance. 

Making Quality IT, 

Simple 

www.stratusblue.co.nz 

0800 2 ASSIST


REGIONAL INVESTING 

Collective strength 

Left to right: Sam Newbury, 

Lyndon Settle, Davide Caloni. 

Ki te Kotahi te kākaho, ka whati; 

ki te kāpuia, e kore e whati. 

If a reed stands alone, it can be broken; 

if it is in a group, it cannot. 

This whakataukī (Māori proverb) encapsulates 

the power of collective strength, a philosophy that 

underpins Quayside Holdings way of working as 

they look to the future. 

As the commercial investment 

arm of Bay of 

Plenty Regional Council, 

Quayside’s primary function 

is to deliver sustainable longterm 

returns to its shareholder, 

through responsible asset management. 

It’s a structure, where 

Quayside invests on behalf of 

the Council, providing an annual 

shareholder dividend and retaining 

a portion for growth capital. 

How it delivers and who’s 

behind this small but mighty 

machine has largely remained 

a mystery in years gone by. But 

that is changing. 

Key ingredients of a 

high-performing team 

CEO, Lyndon Settle has brought 

a renewed focus on collaborative 

working. With a multi-disciplinary 

team of specialists in 

their field including, investment 

managers, chartered accountants, 

engineers, lawyers, people 

and culture specialists and marketers 

- the knowledge and experience 

is unyielding. Lyndon’s 

ability to influence, motivate 

and enable others to collectively 

contribute towards a shared 

vision and purpose, has been the 

catalyst to this inclusive way of 

working. 

“We support our people to 

be curious, creative and think 

outside the box. Bold initiatives 

live alongside radical candour 

in this niche environment. This 

takes the form of brave, open and 

respectful conversations, where 

we strive to listen to understand, 

rather than defend. Working in 

silos can create bias and limit 

our opportunity to see new perspectives 

whereas collaboration 

fosters innovation, forcing us to 

expand our thinking and look to 

the periphery, which is crucial 

in today’s competitive environment,” 

says Lyndon. 

Davide Caloni as the General 

Manager – Finance for Quayside 

Group, is a pivotal member of the 

Senior Leadership Team, playing 

a multifaceted role heading the 

finance and treasury functions 

and supporting the execution 

of the investment strategies. As 

the head of finance and treasury 

functions, Davide is at the forefront 

of ensuring the Group’s 

financial health and statutory 

obligations are met and optimised, 

managing tax obligations, 

project accounting, and providing 

specialist advice on investment 

and divestment opportunities 

across various asset classes. 

Davide creates enterprise 

value by analysing cash and 

debt management practices and 

existing assets and investments, 

which form the foundation for 

accurate forecasting and portfolio 

modelling. He also is leading 

Quayside’s XRB climate-related 

reporting. 

Sam Newbury, Senior Investment 

Manager, brings a wealth 

of experience in corporate 

finance and portfolio management 

to his six-year tenure at 

Quayside. Whilst Sam plays a 

key role in setting investment 

strategy, deal execution and asset 

management, Sam views his role 

as more of a project management 

function. 

Sam notes “In my mind, being 

an effective investment advisor 

for a portfolio like Quayside’s is 

very similar to project management. 

Whilst a detailed understanding 

of each asset class is 

essential, it is almost impossible 

to do effectively without input 

from a deep bench of both internal 

and external experts.” 

Sam’s professional skills 

encompass a deep understanding 

of investment products, corporate 

finance, and investments. 

His core competencies revolve 

around strategic planning, 

financial analysis, deal sourcing 

and execution, and effective 

stakeholder engagement, with a 

strong passion for creating value 

through sustainable and innovative 

businesses that contribute to 

both social and environmental 

well-being. 

Bound by good 

intentions 

Whether it’s pursuing a new 

investment opportunity or managing 

an existing asset, the adage 

of ‘many hands, make light work’ 

is true. But ask the team if it’s 

seamless and they’ll openly tell 

you there’s always room for 

improvement. What binds them 

is a genuine intent to do right by 

the organisation, its shareholder 

and the wider community. 

Quayside has a wide investment 

mandate, across different 

asset classes. Deals can originate 

through anyone in the wider 

team, with the initial review, 

research and early screening of 

the opportunity being led by the 

Investment team. 

As they move into the due 

diligence stage, it’s about understanding 

the risks associated 

with the asset. This is undertaken 

by both internal and external 

technical expertise, including 

finance, legal, tax and property, 

depending on the asset. 

“Having three in-house engineers 

is a huge point of difference 

and competitive advantage 

for Quayside when investing in 

real estate-backed assets and 

strategies. While it isn’t usual 

practice for an investment company 

it provides significant value 

when looking at opportunities. 

We’re privileged to be able to call 

on our property team for advice, 

especially when reviewing technical 

due diligence property 

reports,” says Sam. 

The execution of Quayside’s 

strategy forms the core of 

their collaboration. Within the 

Finance team this can include 

general capital budgeting, forecasting, 

valuations and ongoing 

asset monitoring. With the legal 

team providing another lens and 

layer of value. 

“Having Suzanne Casey as our 

in-house legal counsel is incredibly 

valuable, as it allows us to 

lean on her for support with both 

transactions and asset management. 

Having someone of her 

expertise and skill sets provides 

the whole team with the ability 

to access good legal advice and 

commercial support in real-time 

reducing the need for the business 

to rely on costly external 

lawyers, likewise with Davide’s 

experience, he understands what 

best-practice and good fund management 

looks like. You also get 

a calm and practical approach 

from our team, with the ability 

to work through problems.” Sam 

says. 

Partnering for 

success 

2023 has brought a couple of 

major investments to fruition. In 

September, Quayside announced 

its stake in Tauranga Crossing 

Limited, a premier retail 

shopping centre situated in the 

expanding Tauranga Western 

Corridor. The investment provides 

consistent and stable distributions 

to the portfolio, whilst 

growing the asset base. 

Shortly followed the 

announcement of the joint venture 

partnership with Watts & 

Hughes and Carrus in the 35 

Hamilton Street Commercial 

Centre building. Both investments 

demonstrate a desire for 

large-scale co-investment partners, 

where there is alignment 

in values and mutually beneficial 

skill sets and positive outcomes 

that provide intergenerational 

prosperity for the Bay of Plenty 

region. 

Quayside Holdings Limited was 

established to hold the Port of 

Tauranga shares owned by Bay 

of Plenty Regional Council in 

1991. 30 years later, Quayside has 

evolved to become a diversified 

investment manager with several 

subsidiaries and total group 

assets of $3.3 billion. 

Invested in our Future 

Mauri Ora Roa 

quaysideholdings.co.nz


EMPLOYMENT LAW 

Workplace law update 

As we close out 2023, many employers are buoyed 

by the new National led coalition government. 

In this article, we explore what this will mean for 

New Zealand’s employment, health and safety and 

immigration law over the next year and update you 

on the emerging themes we are seeing in workplaces. 

Workplace laws 

under a National-ACT 

Coalition Government 

National and ACT agree on the 

following workplace law changes, 

which we expect to happen in 

2024: 

• Repeal the Fair Pay Agreements 

Act 2022 (and end fair 

pay agreement bargaining 

currently underway with six 

industries). 

• Reinstate 90-day trial periods 

for all businesses (meaning 

those with over 20 employees 

would be able to use 90-day 

trial provisions with unjustified 

dismissal protections). 

• Remove the requirement to 

pay Immigration NZ’s (INZ) 

“median wage” to meet 

Accredited Employer Work 

Visa (AEWV) requirements. 

• Amend the Parental Leave 

and Employment Protection 

Act 1987 to allow parents to 

divide paid parental leave 

between them in the way that 

they think is best, eg taking 

this at the same time, one after 

the other or in overlapping 

instalments. 

• Create a new visa category 

that will allow parents and 

grandparents sponsored by 

their children or grandchildren 

to apply for a multiple 

entry visa, allowing for travel 

over a period of five years. 

Finer details are to be agreed 

but National has said it would 

require visa holders to have 

health insurance for the duration 

of their stay, while ACT 

says visa holders will need 

to pay a $3,500 annual fee 

towards a public health fund. 

National has also indicated 

further immigration changes 

(although the coalition make up 

will impact progression of these 

policies) including: 

• New visa categories. 

• Priority processing services for 

fast tracking INZ applications. 

• Doubling the Regional Seasonal 

Worker Scheme cap and 

exploring new countries for 

this and changing the Working 

Holiday Visa (WHV) Scheme, 

including increasing the age 

from 30 to 35 and allowing second 

and third WHVs for some 

workers. 

Tikanga in the 

workplace 

Recent Employment Court decisions 

regarding the application 

of tikanga/tikanga values in the 

workplace have highlighted the 

importance of employers applying 

these values appropriately 

for their workplace context, at 

least where they have committed 

to this or are otherwise asked to 

take account of cultural considerations 

by employees. 

The Court has commented 

that in order to uphold tikanga/ 

tikanga values in the workplace, 

effort must be applied and sustained 

from beginning to end of 

the employment relationship and 

this requires more than simple 

translations that seek to embed 

tikanga/Te Ao Māori in Pakeha 

concepts. 

Employers are expected to 

engage appropriate Tikanga 

experts or cultural advisors to 

build on their understanding and 

application of the same. 

KATE ASHCROFT AND 

CHRISTIE MCGREGOR, 

Partners, Copeland Ashcroft 

Kate and Christie act for employers 

across a wide range of industries 

nationwide, giving advice and providing 

representation in disputes. 

Employee or 

Contractor? 

Scrutiny of independent contractor 

arrangements by the 

Court continues and employers 

are well advised to review these 

arrangements to make sure they 

are fit for purpose. 

Health and Safety 

Mental health is firmly on Work- 

Safe’s radar. It is investigating 

complaints, and we anticipate a 

prosecution in respect of harm 

to mental health to happen soon. 

Employers whose health and 

safety management plan does not 

deal with bullying, harassment, 

discrimination or psychosocial 

risks and mental health are likely 

to be exposed in this respect, 

with recent statistics indicating 

29% of complaints to WorkSafe 

are mental health related. 

WorkSafe will also continue 

its focus on key industries such 

as agriculture, construction, forestry, 

manufacturing, healthcare 

and social assistance according 

to its Harm Reduction Plan, 

including holding those at the top 

of organisations to account for 

health and safety failings. 

Other law changes 

There are also possible key law 

changes coming around: 

• Human rights, proposing to 

make discrimination on the 

grounds of gender identity 

or expression, or variation of 

sex characteristics unlawful, 

and to include an obligation to 

make reasonable accommodations 

for all LGBTQIA+ people 

in the workplace; and 

• Privacy, proposing changes 

including a new notification 

obligation on an agency when 

it collects personal information 

indirectly, to update New 

Zealand’s privacy laws in line 

with international best practice. 

Under the new principle 

the collecting agency would 

be required to notify an 

individual of a range of matters, 

including its name and 

address, the purpose of collection, 

and rights of access to 

and correction of information. 

Immigration 

Accredited employers can expect 

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) 

to be completing audit checks 

(INZ targets are that this will be on 

15% of accredited employers each 

year) on accreditation and general 

immigration requirements 

including to ensure that migrant 

workers are not being exploited. 

These checks were expected, 

after INZ granted accreditation to 

numerous employers at pace and 

without any deep review of the 

applications for these. 

As such, employers who are 

audited are well advised to seek 

advice in engaging with INZ as 

their accreditation is at stake. INZ 

has advised that as of 6 November 

2023, 94 employer accreditations 

have been revoked and 

21 suspended, following these 

checks. 

The list of immigration 

requirements that employers will 

need to keep on top of continues 

to grow. The Worker Protection 

(Migrant and Other Employees) 

Bill (Act) is scheduled to come 

into force from 6 January 2024. 

This Act will allow MBIE/ 

INZ to raise a new strict liability 

infringement offence where a 

migrant worker is employed in a 

manner that is inconsistent with 

the conditions on their work visa 

or where a migrant worker is 

employed when they do not hold 

an appropriate visa. 

The finer details of how MBIE 

will operationalise the Act has not 

been released yet, however it is 

likely that the infringement penalty 

($3000 per worker for companies) 

will be added to existing 

penalties that can be raised. 

The offence is widely worded 

and captures scenarios including 

where a migrant worker is: paid 

below the wage rate, working 

outside the location or in a role 

that is not the role, set on their 

Accredited Employer Work Visa. 

Keeping up to date 

with changes 

As changes come into play with 

the new government, employers 

can maximise the opportunities 

presented by changing 

workplace laws by seeking the 

right advice and documentation 

to support this, ensuring they 

remain competitive in the current 

market and managing risk 

appropriately amidst the headwinds 

that business faces. 

Copeland Ashcroft Workplace Lawyers provide specialist advice, representation 

and support across employment, immigration and health and safety law, to 

businesses throughout New Zealand. 

To receive invitations to our workshop and seminar 

series, and keep up to date with the latest on 

Employment, Health and Safety and Immigration law 

issues, visit www.copelandashcroft.co.nz and subscribe. 

www.copelandashcroft.co.nz | Phone 07 577 8662 | Tauranga: Level 4, 35 Grey Street


LAW 

“You want to be prepared, deliberate and intentional – don’t give your 

accountant and your lawyer a back-of-a-napkin proposal” 

Looking to exit 

your business? 

Don’t leave it too late 

The prospect of buying or 

selling a business is top of 

mind for many people now 

the general election is over. 

Election pledges to lower tax 

cost and compliance, change 

employment law, improve cash 

flow, cut red tape and provide 

better access to capital for small 

business owners, have left people 

buoyed at the prospect of better 

economic times ahead. 

Commercial law specialist 

Andy Martin says a good window 

is now available for people to 

prepare their business for sale – 

but warns many owners leave it 

far too late to connect with their 

advisers. 

“You want to be prepared, 

deliberate and intentional – don’t 

give your lawyer a back-of-a-napkin 

proposal and tell them to settle 

it in two weeks. You may have 

negotiated a perfect exit but nine 

times out of 10, people who take 

a bit more time, have a deliberate 

focus and are willing to take 

advice will achieve far better 

outcomes.” 

Andy worked for Buddle 

Findlay in Auckland for 15 years 

before moving to Tauranga earlier 

this year to join Cooney Lees 

Morgan’s Corporate and Commercial 

team as Special Counsel. 

He has a broad corporate 

and commercial advisory practice, 

with a focus on mid-market 

mergers and acquisitions. 

He says Cooneys has already 

noticed an upturn in corporate 

commercial legal activity and 

he predicts that trend is likely 

to continue under the new 

government. 

“There’s a lot of small to 

medium business owners who 

have been waiting for the uncertainty 

of an election to dissipate 

before making big decisions as 

they want a bit more confidence 

around the economy. And there 

will be buyers and investors who 

were sitting on their hands for 

the same reason.” 

But Andy warns there’s still 

not a lot of government money 

to go around and the economic 

environment won’t change overnight. 

“The country is hugely in 

deficit and will be for another 

few years, so there won’t be a 

bottomless lolly jar for helping 

SMEs. But generally, business 

owners appear to have more 

comfort that their interests 

may be slightly higher on the 

agenda and have a more positive 

outlook.” 

Andy says a number of factors 

suggest that merger and acquisition 

activity in the SME space is 

rebounding and could be poised 

to rise in 2024, with one of the 

key factors being an increasing 

focus on exits and sell downs by 

business owners as part of their 

generational succession planning. 

However, while interest 

rates are forecast to start easing 

next year, the current high cost 

of capital means buyers will continue 

to be selective with their 

investments and acquisitions. So 

now is the time to work closely 

with your accountant and lawyer 

to get everything in order. 

“As always, business owners 

need to work on their business 

as well as in it. Businesses 

have been operating in a tough 

economic environment for the 

last two or three years and may 

have not had particularly good 

growth, or could even have suffered 

a bit of a decline. They’ll be 

wanting to restore their trading 

performance and increase their 

enterprise value.” 

Andy says owners who wish 

to exit within the next year or 

two should start looking at ways 

to improve their business now 

so it’s more attractive to buyers 

– both from a financial perspective 

by improving trading results, 

and also from a legal perspective 

by examining their business 

structure. 

“Speak to your lawyer and 

accountant early. The earlier, the 

better. It doesn’t have to be an 

in-depth discussion. Just start a 

conversation and get a realistic 

idea of what’s ahead of you.” 

Accountants can help frame 

ANDY MARTIN, 

Special Counsel, Cooney Lees Morgan 

up financial reports to improve 

a potential valuation, while your 

lawyer will help assess what you 

ultimately want to achieve from a 

sale. Important issues to consider 

include whether your business is 

more suited for selling as a share 

sale or an asset sale, the extent 

to which a founding vendor 

needs to remain in the business 

to make sure the value is realised 

for the purchaser, and the risk 

profile that a vendor is prepared 

to accept because every sale and 

purchase agreement is different. 

Owners should consider 

whether critical areas of the 

business need to be reviewed or 

restructured. “There’s usually 

low hanging fruit you can do 

straight away, like considering if 

you need to secure key customers 

and suppliers with contracts, 

making sure you own your IP, 

resolving outstanding disputes 

and examining your leases. Is 

there anything else you can do 

to make your business better 

over the longer term, and therefore 

more appealing to potential 

buyers? A strategic review with 

inputs from your professional 

advisors may prove invaluable.” 

Helpfully, Andy has written a 

comprehensive article on what 

to consider before selling your 

business which is available now 

on Cooney’s website. 

“I recommend allowing at 

least three to 12 months to properly 

prepare your business for 

sale. 

At the end of the day, it only 

takes one buyer and one seller 

to make a transaction happen. 

Talking to your advisers early 

can help achieve the most productive 

deal.” 

Thinking of selling 

your business? 

If you’re interested in digging a bit deeper into how the process of 

preparing and selling your business might look, I think you’ll find my 

article “6 Things To Consider Before Selling Your Business” really helpful. 

If you’d like to start a discussion about your full or partial business exit, 

whether that’s imminent or part of a long-term plan, contact me or 

another member of our Corporate & Commercial Team. 

Andy Martin | Special Counsel: 07 927 0588 or amartin@clmlaw.co.nz 

6 Things To 

Consider Before Selling 

Your Business 

247 Cameron Road, Tauranga | cooneyleesmorgan.co.nz


PROPERTY INVESTMENT FUNDS 

Steadfast governance in 

times of economic flux 

This year, PMG Funds officially welcomed Dr Wayne Beilby as Chair of the Board after five years as Independent Director. His wealth 

of experience and intimate knowledge of PMG has been highly valuable to support resilience and continued growth. Wayne shares his 

thoughts on the importance of good governance and strategy when navigating challenging economic environments. 

A year of challenge 

and opportunity 

The echo of shifting economic 

tides has resonated 

across New Zealand’s 

investment landscape in 2023, 

presenting both challenges and 

opportunities for investors. 

According to Wayne, it’s exactly 

these types of turbulent seas that 

differentiate the skilled sailors 

from the less experienced ones. 

“PMG’s reputation for 

growing wealth has been built 

on 30 years of prudent, hands-on 

management and meaningful 

relationships with investors, 

tenants and partners. 

“Our sound governance and 

strategy now offer our four 

generations of investors a sense 

of stability, as they can trust in 

Scott and the team to steady 

the waka through challenging 

economic times.” 

Building investor 

confidence through 

guardianship 

Wayne’s background in 

governance and leadership 

across the risk, financial 

management and corporate 

law sectors means he is wellpositioned 

to lead the board and 

executive to deliver PMG’s longterm 

vision. 

“It’s important to have strong 

leadership and a clear vision 

for where you want to go,” says 

Wayne. 

“When I stepped in as an 

Independent Director six years 

ago, the purpose of my role was 

to provide objective insights into 

the discussions in the boardroom 

– a fresh pair of eyes, if you will. 

As Chair, in a way that is still 

what I do, however I’m now 

more focused on driving the 

strategic direction of the PMG 

business to ensure continued 

long-term growth. 

“PMG’s governance framework 

is anchored in resilience, 

adaptability, and a commitment 

to ethical practices, acting as 

guardians of investors’ wealth, 

tenants’ business success, and the 

staff’s success and wellbeing.” 

“I see a lot of genuine care and 

personal drive by the team to 

achieve results for our investors, 

ensuring that the funds are as 

robust as they can possibly be. 

This means regularly reviewing 

the portfolio asset allocation, 

diversification of fund assets and 

levels of gearing,” says Wayne. 

A sustainable vision 

for the future 

PMG’s proactive stance on 

Environmental, Social, and 

Governance (ESG) factors 

stands as another example of its 

visionary governance approach. 

PMG’s engagement in sustainability 

initiatives predates 

industry norms. 

Wayne believes this not 

only reflects a commitment to 

responsible investment practices, 

but more pragmatically also 

positions its funds to perform well 

under potentially more stringent 

environmental regulations, 

contributing to improved 

environmental performance and 

reduced costs for tenants. 

Beyond sustainability and 

sound strategy, PMG also places 

emphasis on diverse expertise, 

backgrounds, and age within its 

leadership team. 

Acknowledging the influence 

of rapid technological advancements, 

Wayne highlights the 

necessity of diverse perspectives 

to navigate the evolving landscape, 

ensuring PMG remains 

adaptive and innovative in 

its strategy and management 

approach. 

Resilience is built on 

strong foundations 

This commitment to essentially 

doing the right thing means 

that many investors view PMG 

as a safe pair of hands, while 

also offering a means for keen 

commercial property investors 

to tap into a typically tougher 

investment market. 

Wayne (of Ngāti Pukenga, 

Ngāti Ranginui and Ngāi Te 

Rangi) likens PMG’s relationshipbased, 

collaborative approach 

to investment and commercial 

property management to the te 

ao Māori worldview. 

“In some ways Denis 

McMahon, who started PMG 

back in 1992, unknowingly built 

a business on Māori principles of 

guardianship and family – and 

I believe this has been a key to 

setting us apart, and enabling 

our resilience,” says Wayne. 

“I have seen them take a 

careful stewardship approach’ to 

balancing short term costs with 

ensuring long term performance, 

but always remaining committed 

to PMG’s vision and principles.” 

“I have full confidence in 

Scott and the team’s ability to 

continue to provide 

ease of access to 

commercial property 

investment for more 

Kiwi investors, so they 

can enjoy the benefits 

of regular and 

sustainable income, 

with the potential 

for growth in 

value over time.” 

DR WAYNE 

BEILBY 

Chairman 

of the Board, 

PMG Funds 

Disclaimer: The information in this 

article is of a general nature and 

was current as at Wednesday, 22 

November 2023. It is not intended 

to be regulated financial advice for 

the purpose of the Financial Markets 

Conduct Act 2013 and does not take your 

individual circumstances and financial 

situation into account. PMG does not 

provide financial advice. Please seek advice 

from a licenced financial advisor before 

making any investment decisions. 

We've been using our 

property and investment 

smarts to help Kiwis get 

ahead for over 30 years. 

Providing four successive generations of 

investors with cashflow through regular returns 

and a pathway to financial freedom through 

long-term capital growth. 

Better still, we’ve done this by providing 

New Zealand businesses and their staff with 

quality, sustainable premises from which to 

make their mark on the world. 

Reach out to our team today 

for more information. 

07 578 3494 pmgfunds.co.nz 

The information in this advertisement is of a general nature and was current as at 22 November 2023. It is not intended to 

be regulated financial advice for the purpose of the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 and does not take your individual 

circumstances and financial situation into account. PMG does not provide financial advice. Please seek advice from a 

licenced financial advice provider before making any investment decisions.


ACCOUNTING & ADVISORY 

Deloitte expands 

presence with new 

Tauranga office 

ANDREA SCATCHARD, 

Tax and Business 

Advisory, Deloitte 

PAUL SHALLARD, 

Consulting, 

Deloitte 

Leading professional services firm, Deloitte, has recently opened a new office in 

Tauranga, marking a significant step in its continued expansion across NZ. 

Deloitte’s “why” is to make 

an impact that matters – 

for our clients, our people 

and our community. The opening 

of our new office allows us to 

scale up the impact we are making 

in the region already, bringing 

more choice to businesses operating 

here and creating new opportunities 

for our people. Our new 

office in Hamilton St in the CBD is 

led by Partners Andrea Scatchard 

(Tax and Business Advisory) and 

Paul Shallard (Consulting), who 

both live locally. 

Reflecting the high levels of 

growth experienced in Tauranga 

and the wider Bay of Plenty 

region in recent years, our decision 

to establish a physical presence 

in Tauranga aligns with our 

commitment to be at the forefront 

of industry transformation 

and to support regional growth. 

Like the introduction of cloud 

computing before it, the rise of 

AI will be a huge disruptor in 

the way we as professional service 

providers work with our 

clients. AI will put more power 

in the hands of business owners 

and management by automating 

time-consuming and routine 

tasks, including simple reporting 

using the many tools that bolt 

on to cloud-based accounting 

systems. 

As accounting service providers, 

this provides us with the 

opportunity to focus on more 

complex and value-adding services 

by using our real-world 

experience to provide insights 

into the financial data and work 

alongside business owners and 

management to develop tailored 

business solutions. 

At Deloitte, the provision of 

Virtual Financial Services has 

grown out of this transformational 

change in the accounting 

industry, and this is one of the key 

strengths of our Tauranga team. 

What are Virtual 

Financial Services? 

Traditionally, small and medium-sized 

businesses have relied 

on in-house finance teams to 

handle all of their financial matters. 

However, this approach 

can be costly and impractical for 

many companies. Virtual Financial 

Services offers an alternative 

solution by providing businesses 

with outsourced financial expertise 

without the need for a full 

finance team on the payroll. 

Virtual Financial Services 

involve engaging a team of experienced 

financial professionals 

specialising in strategic financial 

planning, budgeting, forecasting, 

financial analysis, tax 

planning and overall financial 

management. 

How do Virtual 

Financial Services 

Work? 

Deloitte Virtual Financial Services 

typically operate on a subscription-based 

model, allowing 

businesses to choose a package 

that suits their specific needs and 

budget. Our team works closely 

with the business to gain a deep 

understanding of its financial 

and operational goals. 

After conducting a comprehensive 

financial analysis, we 

work with you to develop a customised 

financial plan tailored to 

the business’s objectives. 

The benefits of Virtual Financial 

Services include: 

• Cost-effectiveness 

• Access to external expertise 

• Scalability as your business 

grows and matures 

• Allows you to focus on core 

competencies 

• Brings an independent and 

objective perspective to your 

business 

• Provides expert risk assessment 

and management. 

If this sounds like something 

that would benefit your business, 

or you just want to chat about the 

wide range of other services that 

Deloitte provides, please get in 

touch – we can’t wait to talk with 

you. We are in our Hamilton 

Street office until Q2 2025 when 

we will be moving to the wonderful 

new Northern Quarter complex 

right on The Strand. 

Obstacles 

Connect 

Collaborate 

Deliver 

Advantage 

Future-proofing your business in a 

constantly changing environment. 

We’re here in the Bay of Plenty to help 

businesses elevate finance function 

performance and delivery. 

Connect with us to find out more about 

how we can help. 

Andrea Scatchard – ascatchard@deloitte.co.nz 

Paul Shallard – pshallard@deloitte.co.nz 

© 2023. Deloitte Limited (as trustee for the Deloitte Trading Trust).


LOCAL GOVERNMENT 

The Te Manawataki o Te Papa development will transform Tauranga city centre. 

Revitalising Tauranga’s heart 

Work begins on city centre transformation 

Gareth Wallis discussing the scope of Tauranga’s city centre transformation with a recent tour group. 

After decades of neglect and 

indecision, we’re now working with our 

city partners and the community to create a 

city centre that will be a very special place. 

This is a once in a generation opportunity.” 

Gareth Wallis’ excitement 

about his role as Tauranga 

City Council’s General 

Manager: City Development & 

Partnerships is palpable. 

There’s a very good reason 

for that – the projects his team 

are working on, amongst other 

things, are steadily putting in 

place the building blocks for 

a rejuvenated city centre – a 

place visitors will talk about and 

remember, and locals will be 

proud of. 

“After decades of neglect and 

indecision, we’re now working 

with our city partners and the 

community to create a city centre 

that will be a very special place,” 

he says. “This is a once in a generation 

opportunity. I was brought 

up in Tauranga and the opportunity 

to be part of something like 

this is what gets me out of bed in 

the morning.” 

Gareth hails the vision of the 

Council’s commissioners, who 

made some bold decisions to 

reverse the fortunes of a commercial 

centre that had been in 

decline for years. 

“They understood that decisive 

action would be required 

to build the community facilities 

we had been lacking and get the 

heart of the city pumping again; 

and they also saw the opportunity 

to link those facilities to a 

wider city centre redevelopment 

which will also see the nearby 

waterfront reserve redeveloped 

into a welcoming greenspace, 

events venue and destination 

playground.” 

The ‘heart’ of this concept 

though is Te Manawataki o Te 

Papa (the heartbeat of Te Papa), 

the city’s former civic precinct, 

where a library and community 

hub, civic whare (public meeting 

space) and museum and exhibition 

gallery will take shape over 

the next five years. 

These long-awaited community 

facilities will see $306 million 

invested and with more than 

$1.5 billion in private and public 

sector investment also committed 

over the next eight years, the 

city centre will undergo an economic, 

cultural and social renaissance, 

bringing far-reaching benefits 

for generations to come. 

As the thought leader spearheading 

this significant work 

programme, Gareth is committed 

to restoring this once-vital area 

and making it a great place to 

live, work, learn and play. 

Gareth joined the Council in 

2017. He was appointed General 

Manager: Community Services 

in 2019 and then moved into his 

current position in 2022. Previously, 

he had worked in a variety 

of local government leadership 

roles and has a background in 

the performing arts, event management, 

and emergency management, 

the latter at a practical 

level as a Fire and Emergency 

New Zealand volunteer for 

nearly 20 years. He is a member 

of the Bay Venues Board of Directors 

and is a director of the AIMS 

Games. 

Gareth has a strong focus 

on relationship development 

within the community, enjoys 

building successful and engaged 

teams, and always strives to put 

in place processes that create 

accountability and transparency 

in decision-making. 

While the bulk of his team’s 

work is future-oriented, significant 

attention is also focused 

on the here and now. Work is 

underway on the upgrade of 

Tunks Reserve and Elizabeth 

Street East and on the redevelopment 

of Masonic Park, which 

will link the civic precinct to the 

waterfront. The Council’s future 

leased administration office is 

rapidly taking shape at 90 Devonport 

Road and work on the new 

library and community hub facility 

is due to start early in 2024. 

“Council is also committed to 

supporting the city centre during 

this time of transformation and 

is implementing a range of initiatives 

to help with its ongoing 

growth, development and 

success. 

“Some of these include shortterm 

parking options, establishing 

a City Safety and Engagement 

Advisor, supporting the development 

of student accommodation, 

and creating events and 

activations to encourage people 

to come in and spend time in the 

area,” Gareth says. 

“We’re also meeting regularly 

with local business owners to 

listen and, where we can, implement 

any ideas that could help to 

reduce any short-term disruption 

to their operations.” 

To offset the loss of parking 

spaces on the waterfront, the 

first stage of the redeveloped 

Dive Crescent car park opened 

recently and more on-street 

parking is being created, together 

with a new ground level car park 

at 160 Devonport Road and the 

return of the Spring Street car 

park building to full capacity following 

the completion of seismic 

strengthening work. 

With the warmer summer 

days approaching, an events calendar 

has been launched for the 

GARETH WALLIS, 

General Manager: 

City Development 

& Partnerships – 

Tauranga City Council 

city centre, bringing a range of 

exciting free activities for everyone 

to enjoy. Organised by the 

Council and supported by Downtown 

Tauranga, the events aim to 

bring more people into the area 

over the coming months and support 

city centre businesses as the 

transformation takes place. 

“The activities and events 

planned for this summer are 

a great way to instantly inject 

more vibrancy into the area and 

give people a taste of what they 

can expect in the future,” Gareth 

says. “Everyone in the community 

can play their part in supporting 

the city centre during this 

time and we encourage people to 

keep visiting their favourite spots 

to shop, dine and attend events. 

“It’s also a great chance to see 

first-hand the exciting progress 

being made as our city centre 

transforms into a place that we 

can all enjoy and feel proud of.”


HIGH PERFORMANCE 

The ‘Titan of Tauranga’ 

secret revealed 

Less than three years ago, Freddie Bennett arrived in Tauranga with 

no contacts, no network and no business to lead. Today, he owns 

New Zealand’s most powerful – and most exclusive – mastermind 

networking group. Discover the secret behind his meteoric 

rise from addiction and depression to Guinness World Record 

holder, adventurer, and leading the private members group that 

everybody wants to join… but nobody talks about. 

you keep a secret?” 

Freddie smiles conspiratorially. 

“I’m on a “Can 

heroic quest. Nothing exists like 

this in New Zealand. A mastermind 

group full of remarkable 

people sharing once-in-lifetime 

experiences, learning unique lessons 

in secret places.” 

It sounds like a far-fetched 

dream that’s impossible to 

deliver. But ‘impossible’ is what 

Freddie Bennett does best. 

Proving the doubters 

wrong 

Freddie learned about decision-making 

when a drug-dealer 

held a gun to his head and pulled 

the trigger. 

Living in the UK, his life 

appeared perfect: He had a 

young family, a Porsche on the 

driveway, a Rolex on the wrist 

and a successful career advising 

the executive teams of brands 

such as Coca-Cola, Amazon, Microsoft, 

Virgin Atlantic, Heineken, 

Kuwait Petroleum and many 

more. 

But underneath the surface, 

Freddie’s life was falling apart. 

A potent mix of stress, and overwhelming 

imposter syndrome 

led to anxiety, depression, and 

substance addiction. 

Freddie became disillusioned 

at living an unfulfilled existence. 

“I was someone I didn’t recognise”, 

he explains. “I felt trapped 

in this life of quiet desperation. 

And I felt guilty because I knew 

I had so much that I should be 

grateful for, which just made me 

feel even more stuck. I was unfit, 

overweight, addicted, suicidal 

and one bad decision away from 

fully burning-out and blowing-up 

my life.” 

Then, at 36, Freddie watched 

his father die suddenly and brutally 

before his eyes, and it gave 

him the wake-up call he needed. 

“My dad’s death made me realise 

I was wasting my life, wasting 

my potential and wasting time. 

I was a seven-figure leader at 

work. But I wasn’t a seven-figure 

husband. I wasn’t a seven-figure 

father. I didn’t have seven-figure 

habits and I certainly didn’t have 

a seven-figure body”. 

Nobody believed Freddie 

could change his ways - he’d tried 

and failed so many times before. 

But he embarked on what he 

called ‘a heroic quest’ to prove to 

himself - and to the world - what 

he was capable of. 

Completing the world’s toughest 

footrace – 300km unsupported 

across the scorching Sahara Desert 

in six days; breaking Guinness 

World Records; winning ultramarathons; 

running 100 miles 

non-stop through the wilderness; 

completing Ironman races; 

publishing a bestselling book; 

launching a globally acclaimed 

podcast and much more. 

This led him to be featured 

by media such as the BBC, Men’s 

Health magazine, the Daily Mail 

and invited to the United Nations 

as a mindset and resilience 

advisor. 

Then an opportunity to move 

to Aotearoa arose, and Freddie 

embraced the challenge. Despite 

never visiting the country before, 

and with no business, no support 

network, no contacts and 

no friends, he was determined to 

make a difference. 

Freddie hustled, knocked on 

doors and focused on serving 

others, and quickly built a successful 

business working with 

accountancy and advisory firms 

to give their teams the knowledge, 

mindset and habits to create 

client revenue ‘on demand’. 

“But I knew I could do more”, 

Freddie states. “I wanted to create 

something that nobody has 

ever done. Something that would 

give bold, talented kiwis access 

to a powerful network full of 

remarkable people who could 

help them achieve amazing fulfilment, 

combined with unforgettable 

experiences”. 

So he chose to make the 

impossible dream a reality…and 

shoot for the stars. 

Aiming high 

Freddie created ‘Titan Sky’: A 

secret mastermind group for 

individuals who have already 

experienced an element of business 

and financial success but 

feel like something is missing 

from their lives. 

What exactly is a ‘Mastermind’ 

group? 

“The concept of a Mastermind 

group was 

introduced by 

Napoleon Hill”, he 

explains. “It’s formed 

by bringing a small, select 

group of talented individuals 

together to learn, grow and 

expand their businesses, minds 

and lives. This was inspired by 

Hill’s many conversations with 

the highly successful business 

magnate, Andrew Carnegie, who 

attributed his entire fortune and 

success to his Mastermind group. 

I wanted to bring the concept to 

New Zealand”. 

Freddie has gone to great 

lengths to ensure Titan Sky is not 

another networking group: This 

is about bringing truly successful 

and elite individuals together 

in private to excel in all areas of 

their lives, indulge in truly memorable 

experiences and make 

powerful connections. 

“As a newcomer to Tauranga 

– and to New Zealand – I had to 

do the rounds of the usual networking 

groups. I saw the same 

people promoting themselves in 

the same old way, at the same old 

meetings in the same old places 

drinking the same old terrible 

coffee.” 

“I was looking for a network 

that would enrich my life. What 

we currently have made me 

emotionally, spiritually and 

financially poorer. And worst 

of all…I felt like these groups 

were wasting my most precious 

resource: Time” 

So when Freddie couldn’t 

find what he was looking for, he 

created it. The Titan Sky mastermind 

was born. But instead of 

shouting it from the rooftops, he 

did everything he could to keep it 

a secret. Until now. 

Few are chosen 

In a world where everyone is 

fighting for attention, Freddie 

wants to keep Titan Sky under 

the radar. 

“Success comes from subtraction”, 

he says. “I don’t want the 

world to know about Titan Sky. 

This won’t be for everyone, and 

that’s just the way it should be.” 

So who is likely to become a 

member? 

“We invite applications from 

people who feel like their edge in 

life has been dulled. They might 

not feel truly recognised or fulfilled, 

despite the sacrifices 

they’ve made over the years. 

Individuals who want to join 

Titan Sky often are often eager 

to regain their ‘lost’ strength, 

spirit and energy and or can’t 

remember when they last felt 

truly challenged or alive. And 

most of all, they must be excited 

by the prospect of powerful conversations 

with remarkable 

people in secret places.” 

For those who do make 

it inside, a truly memorable 

experience awaits. 

“Members of Titan Sky will 

make deals, make memories and 

make their lives count for something 

more”, Freddie says. 

“This is about sharing experiences 

with truly powerful 

experts, leaders and masters of 

their fields while rediscovering 

their ‘true’ self, in terms of health, 

fitness and relationships, and to 

be held accountable for excelling 

in this area of their lives.” 

A different set of rules 

Freddie has gone to great lengths 

to ensure Titan Sky delivers a 

business, personal and developmental 

experience like no other. 

Privacy and secrecy within 

the group are paramount. 

Rather than sending standard 

emails and calendar invites to 

the bi-monthly meetings, members 

receive information via 

hand-written, wax-sealed letters. 

The mastermind also has a 

strict ‘no conference centre’ rule. 

(“Meeting rooms are where inspiration 

goes to die”, Freddie says). 

Titan Sky members convene in 

locations such as maximum security 

prisons, the stage of a closed 

opera house, cutting-edge tech 

labs and military bases. 

The exact location is kept a 

secret until the day of the meeting, 

and Freddie gives a guarantee 

that Titan Sky members will 

get a transformative experience, 

a life lesson and a story to tell 

that will never be forgotten. 

It’s bold. It’s brash. It’s ambitious. 

It’s disruptive. And that’s 

exactly how Freddie likes it. 

“I want to make Tauranga 

stand out, not just in New Zealand, 

but across the world”, Freddie 

states. “You don’t stand out 

by aiming for mediocrity or reinventing 

the wheel”. 

Is he worried that the five-figure 

annual membership fee will 

put people off? 

“That’s the plan”, Freddie 

replies. “I’m hoping 99% of 

people don’t want to apply. 

As Groucho Marx once said: I 

wouldn’t want to be part of any 

club that would welcome me 

as a member. But for the 1%... 

you will experience something 

money cannot buy.” 

Freddie’s vision for Titan Sky 

is certainly bold, and potentially 

impossible. But for someone who 

enjoys making the impossible 

happen…it appears the sky’s the 

limit. 

Titan Sky has no website. 

Membership applications 

are made in writing. Contact 

can be made by emailing 

hello@freddiembennett.com


FINANCIAL SERVICES 

Thinking of seeing 

a financial advisor? 

Sarah Ashby and Simon Bradley, wealth management advisors at Jarden 

explain what to expect and what to ask when consulting a financial advisor. 

For many people, choosing 

to see a financial adviser 

is a big decision. Talking 

about money and finances can be 

a deeply personal topic and for 

some people, it isn’t something 

they’re used to being open about. 

As financial advisers, we get to 

meet with new clients for a range 

of reasons. It’s generally connected 

to a change of situation, 

and they need help with what 

to do next. Often this is positive, 

where people are taking the next 

step towards their future by selling 

a property or their business, 

or being proactive in planning for 

retirement or building a legacy 

for their family. 

On the other hand, sometimes 

the need to talk to an adviser can 

come from a place of sadness if a 

loved one has passed away and 

left provisions for you in their 

will. 

Whatever the case, we find 

the first meeting is an important 

one. Our approach is to spend 

time with new clients and do a 

lot of listening and asking questions. 

This way, we can get an 

understanding of their current 

circumstances, find out what they 

are looking for in an adviser and 

what their goals are. 

At this point, we will likely 

have a few different options that 

work for different scenarios and 

goals. At Jarden, we offer the full 

range of services, from transactional 

advice only (e.g. share 

broking) to a full portfolio management 

services. We will recommend 

which service we think 

would be most appropriate and 

outline the applicable fees. 

If it is determined that a portfolio 

management service is appropriate, 

a big part of that meeting 

will involve talking about the 

client’s risk profile, discussing 

both their tolerance and ability to 

accept risk in a portfolio. 

The risk assessment is vital for 

both the adviser and the client 

to understand levels of comfort 

(or discomfort) with movements 

in the share market – especially 

given the recent volatility. This 

can also be an interesting exercise 

for couples where they may 

both have different risk profiles, 

and we need to find a way 

forward. 

A financial adviser will make 

sure that someone with a conservative 

appetite doesn’t end up 

with a high-risk portfolio only to 

find they are concerned and cash 

up when the market goes down. 

The effect of cashing up when the 

market falters can result in locking 

in losses, so it’s important to 

always consider the client’s goals 

and reasons for investing in the 

first place. Our job as advisers is 

to help them stick to the agreed 

long term investment strategy, 

rather than reacting to short term 

market movements. 

We often have clients tell 

us how valuable it is to have a 

chance to have open, frank conversations 

about money and 

goals in a way that they don’t feel 

comfortable doing with family or 

friends. 

One option that usually holds 

a lot of appeal for our clients is 

our Discretionary Investment 

Management Service (DIMS), 

which is where we provide a 

diversified investment portfolio 

that is bespoke to the client. We 

take care of the initial portfolio 

set up and the ongoing investments 

decisions so that clients 

don’t need to do that themselves. 

For this service, after the 

initial meeting we prepare an 

investment proposal and present 

it to the client for review. In 

this, we play back to them what 

they’ve told us and recommend 

a way to invest in a portfolio that 

will fit with their risk profile and 

help them achieve their investment 

goals. At this point, we talk 

more about the fees for their specific 

portfolio. 

Once the client has reviewed 

this and given us the green light, 

we proceed with creating the 

portfolio and taking care of it for 

them. We set up the portfolio, 

purchase all the assets, and create 

online access so the client can 

view their investment at any time. 

Many clients tell us they 

would find setting up a portfolio 

a daunting task and they’re 

delighted that we can do this 

for them quickly and easily. We 

take care of the portfolio over 

time – everything from making 

investment decisions and regular 

reporting – we even provide a tax 

report for you. 

It’s such a privilege for us to 

build long-term relationships 

with our clients and we love nothing 

more than seeing our clients 

achieve their goals. 

If seeking financial advice is 

on your to-do list, we hope sharing 

this process has helped demystify 

things and let you know 

what you should expect. 

Sarah Ashby 027 211 0760 

Simon Bradley 027 427 3899 

www.jarden.co.nz 

SARAH ASHBY, 

Wealth Management Advisor, Jarden 

SIMON BRADLEY, 

Wealth Management Advisor, Jarden 

Disclaimer: Sarah Ashby and Simon Bradley 

are Wealth Management Advisers at Jarden. 

The information and commentary in this 

article are provided for general information 

purposes only. It reflects views and research 

available at the time of publication, using 

external sources, systems and other data and 

information we believe to be accurate, complete 

and reliable at the time of preparation. 

We make no representation or warranty as to 

the accuracy, correctness and completeness 

of that information, and will not be liable or 

responsible for any error or omission. It is 

not to be relied upon as a basis for making 

any investment decision. Please seek specific 

investment advice before making any investment 

decision or taking any action. Jarden 

Securities Limited is an NZX Firm. A financial 

advice provider disclosure statement is 

available free of charge at www.jarden.co.nz/ 

our-services/wealth-management/financial-advice-provider-disclosure-statement 

Strong investment decisions 

built on trust 

Our local wealth management experts Sarah and Simon, will work with you to guide you toward your 

long term financial goals. 

www.jarden.co.nz/wealth-management 

Jarden Securities Limited is an NZX Firm. Jarden Financial Advice Provider Disclosure statement is publicly available at 

www.Jarden.co.nz. Jarden is not a registered bank in New Zealand.


Tompkins Wake Supreme Winner – MOUNTAIN JADE 

Spotlight on Rotorua businesses 

It was an evening filled with excitement, inspiration, and achievement at the Energy Event Centre, celebrating a 

“Rotorua Special” at the Tompkins Wake Rotorua Business Awards 2023. Run by the Rotorua Business Chamber, 

the awards celebrate innovation, creativity, and best practice across the local business sector. With an impressive 

62 finalists competing for the win - and superb entertainment - the night was an outstanding success. 

ONE 

TWO 

THREE 

FOUR 

FIVE 

SIX 

SEVEN


Photos from Tompkins Wake Rotorua Business Awards 2023, held at the Energy Events Centre, Rotorua. 

Photos by Michelle Cutelli Photography 

Rotorua Business Chamber Presents 


Business 

Awards 

Ngā Tohu Pakihi Rotorua 

> 2023 ROTORUA BUSINESS 

AWARD WINNERS 

KING STREET - Creative Arts 

And Design 

• Fineline Design Agency 

SCION - Innovation And 

Technology 

• SI Lodec New Zealand 

EIGHT 

TEN 

TWELVE 

FOURTEEN 

NINE 

THIRTEEN 

FIFTEEN 

ELEVEN 

ONE ROTORUA NZ: Manaakitanga Tourism And Hospitality – Pullman Rotorua. TWO OSBORNES FUNERAL DIRECTORS: Not For Profit And Social 

Enterprise – Rotorua Pacific Islands Development Charitable Trust. THREE NZME: People’s Choice - Foursquare Ngongotahā. FOUR DELOITTE: 

Retail – Mountain Jade. FIVE MINISTRY OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT: Employer Of The Year - BurgerFuel Fairy Springs. SIX TE ARAWA LAKES TRUST: 

Professional Services – Chemwash Rotorua. SEVEN A CHEAL CONSULTANTS: Emerging Business Leader – Awatere Douglas. EIGHT BNZ: Bilingual 

Business – Xcel Builders Limited. NINE PUKEROA ORUAWHATA HOLDINGS: Primary Manufacturing And Building – Mills-Tui. TEN ROTORUA LAKES 

COUNCIL: Outstanding Contribution To Rotorua – Crankworx Rotorua. ELEVEN RED STAG TIMBER: Businessperson Of The Year – Mike Romanes. 

TWELVE KING STREET: Creative Arts And Design – Fineline Design Agency. THIRTEEN TIMBERLANDS: Workplace Safety And Wellbeing – Redwoods 

Treewalk And Altitude. FOURTEEN REDWOODS TREEWALK: Kaitiakitanga Environmental Sustainability And Climate Change – Mourea Coffee 

Company. FIFTEEN SCION: Innovation And Technology – SI Lodec New Zealand. 

ROTORUA NZ - Manaakitanga 

Tourism And Hospitality 

• Pullman Rotorua 

DELOITTE – Retail 

• Mountain Jade 

PUKEROA ORUAWHATA 

HOLDINGS – Primary 

Manufacturing And Building 

• Mills-Tui 

TE ARAWA LAKES TRUST – 

Professional Services 

• Chemwash Rotorua 

REDWOODS 

TREEWALK - Kaitiakitanga 

Environmental Sustainability 

And Climate Change 

• Mourea Coffee Company 

NZME – People’s Choice 

• Foursquare Ngongotahā 

MINISTRY OF SOCIAL 

DEVELOPMENT - Employer Of 

The Year 

• BurgerFuel Fairy Springs 

BNZ – Bilingual Business 

• Xcel Builders Limited 

TIMBERLANDS – Workplace 

Safety And Wellbeing 

• Redwoods Treewalk AND 

Altitude 

OSBORNES FUNERAL 

DIRECTORS – Not For Profit And 

Social Enterprise 

• Rotorua Pacific Islands 

Development Charitable Trust 

CHEAL CONSULTANTS – 

Emerging Business Leader 

• Awatere Douglas 

ROTORUA LAKES COUNCIL – 

Outstanding Contribution To 

Rotorua 

• Crankworx Rotorua 

RED STAG TIMBER – 

Businessperson Of The Year 

• Mike Romanes 

TOMPKINS WAKE – Supreme 

Overall Winner 

• Mountain Jade


PEOPLE 

BBN’s guide to new people and new 

roles across business in the Bay 

> NEW APPOINTMENTS 

To feature in New Appointments email us at new.appointments@bopbusinessnews.co.nz 

GISELLE BROSNAHAN 

Giselle is a professional portrait photographer 

who specialises in personal 

branding and corporate headshots. She 

founded Giselle B Photography in London 

before relocating with her Kiwi husband 

and two children to Tauranga last 

year. She shares “My approach is to make 

people feel confident and comfortable in 

front of the camera, and to create images 

which represent them and their brand. I 

help business owners and professionals 

elevate their online presence by creating 

photographs that they are proud to 

share.” Giselle’s work has won a number 

of awards, has been published in magazines 

and newspapers, and featured in 

marketing campaigns. 

JENHA PHILLIPS 

Te Puia | NZ Māori Arts & Crafts Institute 

has appointed Jenha Phillips as its 

new marketing and communications 

manager. Jenha has come from Scion, 

the Crown Research Institute for Forestry, 

where she was the marketing and 

communications manager. She has previously 

worked with Te Puia | NZMACI in 

various capacities since 2012 when she 

was communications manager at Rotorua 

NZ. Since then, she has worked with the 

organisation as a client at Shine PR and 

Phillips Group. Jenha is excited to join 

the tourism sector again and to reconnect 

with the team to preserve, promote, and 

perpetuate Māori culture. 

GRANT MARUNUI 

Te Puia | NZ Māori Arts & Crafts introduces 

its new Tumu Whakairo Rākau 

(Head of Wood Carving School) Grant 

1 

4 

Marunui (Ngāti Hurungaterangi, Ngāti 

Te Kahu, Ngāti Rangiteaorere, Ngāti Rongomai, 

Ngāti Manawa and Rangitāne ki 

Manawatu, Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō, Ngāti 

Kuia). Marunui comes from his own 

business Te Taonga Māori Art which was 

based at Scion, fostering an integration of 

matauranga and science. 

Marunui says “with the support of 

my masters who taught me, I intend on 

supporting our pouako (tutors) and 

tauira (students) to ensure we maintain 

the high level of carving our masters set 

for us”. 

2 

5 

1. Giselle Brosnahan, Giselle B Photography. 2. Kirsten Ogden, Fuel Agency. 3. Tom Lear, Fuel 

Agency. 4. Jenha Phillips, Te Puia. 5. Grant Marunui, Te Puia. 6. Scott Koster, Salvation Army. 

3 

6 

KIRSTEN OGDEN 

Fuel Agency is thrilled to announce the 

appointment of Kirsten Ogden as Account 

Director. Kirsten significantly enhances 

the agency’s ability to offer world-class 

client service capabilities. She brings over 

a decade of extensive agency and publishing 

experience, having worked in media 

industries both in New Zealand and London. 

She has driven successful projects 

for Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Panasonic, 

Tourism Australia, Western Bay of Plenty 

District Council, Super Liquor and Resene 

Paints. “I was attracted to Fuel because of 

its reputation,” said Kirsten. “I look forward 

to delivering the highest quality of 

service to clients and helping Fuel thrive 

as we move forward.” 

TOM LEAR 

Creative Director Tom Lear joins Fuel 

Agency from Society to underline the 

Agency’s commitment to offering some of 

the best advertising creative in the industry. 

Tom brings global experience to Fuel, 

having worked with agencies such as 

Saatchi & Saatchi and CHE Proximity and 

brands like Mazda, Foxtel, Telstra, Bank of 

Melbourne, Classic Builders, Zespri and 

Lion Breweries. 

“I welcome the opportunity to help 

clients articulate their brand message 

in a way that resonates with their audiences 

in an increasingly complex world,” 

said Tom. With Tom on the team, Fuel 

continues to be an agency to watch as it 

embarks on its next chapter of growth. 

SCOTT KOSTER 

The Salvation Army has announced the 

recent appointment of Scott Koster as a 

new Wills and Bequests Manager. Scott 

recently left a long career in the banking 

industry, working in the UK and New Zealand, 

with an early career in the automobile 

industry in California. 

Scott’s role endeavours to support and 

promote social causes that directly and 

positively impact people’s lives. Scott 

is thrilled to be part of a dynamic team 

that will further continue the mission of 

the Salvation Army, changing lives for 

the better through the generosity of its 

bequestors. 

NEW BOARD 

ANNOUNCED 

FOR TAURANGA 

BUSINESS 

CHAMBER 

JAMIE LUNAM 

– CHAIR 

1 2 3 4 

Jamie has been a local SME business 

leader across several organisations 

and industries in the Bay of Plenty and 

Waikato for 15 years, with his expertise 

residing predominantly in the primary 

and manufacturing sectors. Having been 

an active part of Chamber activities over 

the years, including head judge for the 

Tauranga Business Awards, has given 

Jamie great insight into the wider business 

ecosystem in Tauranga and he is 

excited to be a part of the team leading 

the Tauranga Business Chamber into 

its next phase. Having recently handed 

over the leadership of local business 

Jenkins Freshpac Systems, Jamie is now 

working in the consulting and contracting 

space with the SME community in 

the Bay of Plenty with a drive to be a 

part of helping shape economic, and in 

turn, social outcomes for our deserving 

community. 

LLOYD RAKAUPAI 

– VICE CHAIR 

Lloyd is an Account Manager for Vertical 

Horizonz New Zealand, with a 

background and expertise in strategic 

acumen and business growth. He is currently 

the Deputy Chairperson of the 

Tauranga Māori Business Association, 

a delegate of Te Kotahitanga o Ngāti 

Tūwharetoa Trust, an Honorary Fisheries 

Officer and has been involved with 

the New Zealand Defence Force for the 

past 18 years. Lloyd is currently studying 

a Master Business Administration. 

“I strive to live by two principles: He 

Mahitahi, meaning to work together 

and Whanake, meaning to grow, move 

onwards, move upwards, spring up, 

develop and rise.” 

BENJI CROSSLEY 

Benji is a Senior Solicitor in the Property 

Team at Sharp Tudhope Lawyers. 

He returned to the Bay with his family 

in 2019 following time away working 

and studying. Prior to joining Sharp 

Tudhope Benji spent ten years working 

in sports administration for Wellington 

Rugby, England Rugby and World Rugby. 

He has been involved in transformative 

projects and major events working with 

a wide array of individuals across sport. 

Tauranga has an exciting future. Benji 

is keen to play any part he can in helping 

the Tauranga business community 

thrive and make the most of the opportunities 

this city presents. 

DEBBIE IRELAND 

For the past 16 years, Debbie has grown 

her Tauranga-based business Digital 

Workplace Results (formerly 

ShareThePoint Ltd), a premier Microsoft 

365 Training Provider. She enables businesses 

to understand that real change 

is achieved by empowering people and 

utilising technology as an enabling tool.


PEOPLE 

> FIRST ON THE SCENE 

Tauranga Business Chamber Business After 5 

with Alliance Sponsors’ at Cargo Shed, November 8, 2023 

Photography: Salina Galvan Photography 

ONE 

TWO 

THREE 

FOUR 

FIVE 

SIX 

SEVEN 

EIGHT 

NINE 

ONE Miriam Hauke, Lizzie Seekup & Kelly Taylor (Trinity Wharf). 

TWO Sonia Tibble (Beca), Raewyn Peck, Angelique Scott & Rhea 

Clune (Personnel Resources). THREE Dan Allen – Gordon (Graeme 

Dingle Foundation), Kevin Murray (Surveying Services), Mark 

Beaudoin & Wanita Wood (First Credit Union) . FOUR Jono Earles 

(Web Genius), Jacqui & Peter Wren-Hilton (Wharf42 Limited). FIVE 

Chris Symes (Oxygen8 Consulting), Valerie Rowe-Mitchell (Emerald 

Business Advisor) & Greg Roworth (Business Flight Path). SIX Jordy 

Eves & Tamzin Hall (Torpedo7), Mike Rawnsley & Jason Sheard 

(The Warehouse Group). SEVEN John McKinley (Vega Mortgages), 

Tazmeen Khan (Tazmeen Khan Financial Services) & Roger Shaw 

(Kiwibank Business Banking). EIGHT Shannon Sheard (The 

Warehouse Group) & Susanna Lin (Access NZ). NINE Julio Silva (Zucca 

Books & Production) & Gisela De Castro (The University of Waikato) . 

1. Jamie Lunam. 2. Lloyd Rakaupai. 

3. Benji Crossly. 4. Debbie Ireland. 

5. Rochelle Lockley . 6. Deborah Peake. 

7. Chad Wallace. 8. Linda Finlay. 

Photos courtesy Salina Galvan Photography 

5 6 7 8 

Debbie’s clients include local and international 

businesses across multiple 

industries. Debbie is well known for 

“making things happen”. Her experience 

as a small business owner brings valued 

perspective. Debbie is a Chartered Member 

of the Institute of Directors. She has 

been a Board Member/Chair for Youth, 

Search and Rescue, and instrumental in 

scaling and strategy. 

ROCHELLE LOCKLEY 

Rochelle Lockley is the General Manager 

Communications for Port of Tauranga 

Limited, New Zealand’s largest port. She 

joined the executive team of the Port in 

September 2020. Prior to this, she spent 

15 years operating her own strategic 

communications consultancy advising 

clients of all sizes from not-for-profit 

organisations through to listed companies. 

Rochelle is a former journalist and 

has held senior communications positions 

in the telecommunications, tourism 

and tertiary education sectors. Over 

the past 30 years, she has worked in 

communications in London, New York, 

Sydney, Auckland and Tauranga. 

DEBORAH PEAKE 

Deborah is a qualified Non-Executive 

Director certified through the IOD in 

London, she offers strategic leadership 

and governance expertise, to any role 

she takes on. Her tenure on the Health 

Lottery Board in the UK, oversaw the 

distribution of funds to health charities 

and reflects her commitment to making 

a positive impact. Deborah’s extensive 

advertising career spans across the UK, 

USA, Australia and China, and working 

with brands such as British Airways, Gillette, 

Walt Disney, Nestle and Procter & 

Gamble illustrates her ability to understand 

diverse markets and industries. 

After her return home, Deborah transitioned 

into real estate at Tremains. 

CHAD WALLACE 

Chad is a Senior Associate at Cooney 

Lees Morgan. Over the last 8 years at 

CLM he has had the privilege of advising 

and learning from some of Tauranga’s 

best businesspeople. This year he 

had the honour of being named a Rising 

Star by NZ Lawyer. Chad lives in Pyes Pa 

with wife Sara and two boys, who are 3 

and 5, and he is very proud of our city 

and passionate about its future. He will 

use this opportunity with the Chamber 

Board to utilise his skills and experience 

to develop and grow our city. 

LINDA FINLAY 

Linda is a Partner BDO Tauranga. She is 

chartered accountant with over 15 years 

experience in business advisory, statutory 

compliance, management accounting 

and general accounting functions. 

Linda specialises in management reporting 

and business analysis – breaking 

down the sea of numbers to what it really 

means for the business owner. Linda 

was co-opted onto the Chamber Board 

in November 2023 following a skills 

assessment of the members after the 

election. As Treasurer, Linda works with 

the CEO on the prudent management of 

the Chamber’s financials and leads the 

Board on strategic financial decisions.

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Offer available 30/10/2023 – 07/02/2024 to customers who sign up to any 2degrees Business 

Connect or Business Choice Mobile Plans or Business Broadband Plans. 

One entry per business account. Winners will be drawn 16th February 2024. Prezzy card is not 

transferrable, exchangeable, or redeemable for cash. 2degrees reserves the right to cancel or amend this 

offer at any time. Promotion T&Cs and Mobile or Broadband T&Cs apply. See 2degrees.nz for full T&Cs. 

FOR KIWI BUSINESS

December 2023 - Bay of Plenty Business News

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