In 20 short years, Hawke’s Bay’s leading construction firm has etched out an enviable list of prominent construction projects across Napier, Hastings and beyond.
In typical Gemco fashion, the company celebrated the 20 year milestone with 500 people including staff, family, clients and friends with Gemfest, headlined by top New Zealand band The Blackseeds at Church Road Winery.
Gemco Managing Director Darren Diack said Gemco sets a high standard when it comes to hospitality and having The Black Seeds on stage at a private party will be hard to top.
“We’ve had big party’s before but this has been the party of all parties. We had a long association with Art Deco and took guests on train trips and other fun excursions, but having a band like The Black Seeds whose songs have millions of listens on Spotify, is pretty special.”
“It was a special day, a chance to thank everyone for the support they have given us and for the role they’ve played in our success.”
Gemco has come a long way since late 2003 when founders Darren Diack, Terry Pratley, John Sarten and John Carter set about disrupting the old school approach to construction, focussing on building longlasting relationships with clients by delivering high quality outcomes while having lots of fun along the way!
Today as Darren reflects on the origins of a business that has now completed more than $1billion in projects, it’s the repeat business from the likes of Pratley/McPhail, Arvida, Woodford House College, EIT Hawke’s Bay, Hastings District Council, Napier City Council and many other quality clients that he’s particularly proud of.
“Customers only come back if you are looking after them” he says. Terry owned the Mary Doyle Retirement Village in Havelock North and in regular catch ups with Darren, who was the boss at Carters Hastings Branch, he would download his frustrations of missed build deadlines.
Over a 12-month period they hatched a plan to transition Terry’s project management firm that oversaw his developments, into a fully-fledged construction company, that in time would offer the full suite of trades – building, painting, plumbing, electrical, masonry, joinery, tiling and plastering.
One of Gemco’s earliest clients was prestigious girls’ secondary school Woodford House, an enduring partnership that has seen multiple new build projects and complex refurbishments over the last 20 years. Woodford House Business and Operations Manager Ted Jones says Gemco has been a committed build partner that has gone the extra mile.
“Gemco have been closely involved with all the major building projects at Woodford House over the last 20 years, as well as being our go to for any urgent maintenance tasks. Gemco always
go out of their way to assist with any request asked of them and have a great knowledge of how the school operates,” Ted says.
In 2004 Darren set about recruiting the very best people from the building industry, many who are still at Gemco today. One of the best recruitment decisions early on was luring well respected building leader Ashley Hartley back to Hawke’s Bay from Hamilton.
Ashley gave Gemco instant street cred, having led some huge build projects such as a multi-million dollar freezing works and as President of Master Builders New Zealand. The company blossomed and went from 8 staff in year one to well over 100 staff within three years. Sadly Ashley passed away suddenly in 2016 but not before passing on his knowledge and commitment to building to the highest standards to the next generation of Gemco employees.
Ashley would be particularly proud of the five year rebuild of the Hawke’s Bay Opera House Precinct in Hastings, which Hastings District Council entrusted Gemco and Ashley’s protégé, Site Manager Eddie Holmes to bring back to life, following an eight year closure due to a low seismic rating.
Darren says the project was one of the most exciting challenges Gemco has ever faced, with a team of over 100 tradesmen taking up the call of duty to transform a derelict end of Hastings into an entertainment precinct now known as Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre.
Upon completion of the $65million project, Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst singled out Gemco and in particular Eddie’s project leadership recognising him with council’s highest civic honour award. Eddie is one of over 140 tradies, admin staff and management that has made Gemco a household name across Hawke’s Bay and today, Gemco continues to be at the forefront of partnering iconic new build or refurbishment projects.
Darren says the success of Gemco is its foundations as a Hawke’s Bay family-owned business.
“We are not a corporate, we do have a board of directors including 3 independents, but we are nimble and decisions are made on the spot with no red tape to work through.
“We don’t have KPI’s or written down visions and values to preach to staff, instead we have a culture of working hard and having fun. Staff come first at Gemco. It’s that simple! “I am extremely proud of the business we have created and of the people who have been part of this success.
The reward for me personally is that my conscience has finally allowed me to step back slightly by not working on Mondays and when I do work my dog Trevor comes with me. Long standing Construction Manager Graeme Johnson is overseeing Stage 2 of Kaweka Hospital, a $150million new private hospital and health campus in Hastings which is set for completion in mid 2025.
Kaweka Hospital Managing Director Dr Colin Hutchison says Gemco has been a fantastic build partner of Kaweka Hospital.
“A private hospital is a complex facility with lots of specialist technology and equipment, but at the same time, it also has to be an environment that provides comfort and care to patients and a centre of excellence for staff.
“Our journey with Gemco will be about five years in total and we have been incredibly impressed by their commitment to the project, their workmanship as well as their dedication to supporting a new standard in surgical care in the region,” he says.
Another large scale project that Gemco started in late 2023 is the $22million Museum Archive Facility in Hastings on behalf of Hastings District Council and Napier City Council. Projects continue for Terry Pratley (now no longer a shareholder) and his Lifecare Villages in Dunedin and Cambridge and we’re also back at EIT Hawke’s Bay repairing the damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle.
Georgina Langdale uses her podcast The Soul Garden to explore ways we can look after our own wellbeing and those we care for.
What is its theme?
I use the podcast to explore ways we can look after our own wellbeing and those we care for. It’s a mix of ecotherapy, coaching, women’s midlife transitions (menopause), meditation, end of life care and spirituality.
How often do you upload a podcast?
I confess I have been a bit sporadic in the past. At the moment I upload a new episode each week. But it is a lot of work and I anticipate possibly moving to every second week.
What platforms are you on?
Spotify, Google, Apple, Buzzsprout
How do you promote it?
Via my newsletter and on social media.
How many followers?
I don’t look – it’s too stressful!
Why do you podcast?
I want my podcast to be a key channel for reaching people who might be interested in other things I do. I’m not aiming for podcast revenue, but I do hope that it encourages people to take a look at my website and sign up for some coaching, a course or purchase some products I make. I enjoy working with audio, it’s such a fabulous medium for sharing information with. I like the immediacy of it, and how easy it is for listeners to consume as they are doing other things like going to the gym etc.
What is easy to set up? What technology and software do you use?
It was very easy. The hard part is being disciplined about it. I use Audacity to record my vocals. I have used Reaper for more sophisticated music editing.
I have a blue Yeti microphone. I then use Camtasia to turn the podcast into a Youtube video. I use Buzzsprout to publish the podcast and send it to Spotify etc. I have tried other options like Kajabi’s own podcast platform and also Substack, but each time have ended up coming back to Buzzsprout because it is cost effective and easy to use.
Who is you’re most interesting guest?
A couple of years ago I interviewed Thomas Moore, he’s a psychotherapist, a musician and was a monk for quite a few years. He has written many books. His bestseller is Care of the Soul. This is a man who gets interviewed by Oprah Winfrey when he brings a new book out! No pressure! After our interview though, he sent me an email saying it was the best interview he had done in a long time, and that it felt like ‘two old friends talking about stuff that matters’. We’ve been friends ever since! I find him very inspiring because he has a beautiful way of helping people help themselves. He is gentle and wise and I can’t recommend his books highly enough.
Who would be your ultimate interview talent?
That is such a hard question! There are so many interesting and inspiring people in this world. I’d quite like to interview Nick Cave as his life has been so full of Georgina Langdale extremes, and I’d like to explore with him the idea of music as a channel for grief and healing. If Einstein was still alive, I’d love to interview him as I’ve always thought he was a shaman who spoke with the language of science; and well, it would be a hoot to interview Oprah! She has talked to so many people over her career and I would like to explore the impact they have had on her personally.
Any tips for other budding podcasters?
Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. But do invest well in basic tools like a good microphone. And have fun with it.
What does success as a podcaster look like to you?
If I think about success in terms of where would I like my podcast to be at the end of this year, I’d like its reach to have grown, I’d like to nail the regular delivery of episodes (in amongst the rest of my workload!) and do more interviews with guests.
What podcasts do you regularly listen to?
At the moment I keep dipping into ‘Talking with Painters’ which is presented by Maria Stoljar, ‘Navigating Consciousness’ presented by Ruper Sheldrake, and The British Museum podcast.
Podcasting is the fastest growing media globally, creating fortunes and celebrity status for the likes of Joe Rogan, Bill Simmons, Karen Kilgraff and Georgia Hardstark (My favourite murder). There’s an oddity about sending questions to local podcasters for a written and published feature…
Kiini Krystal’s podcast Reo Struggles discusses the Te Reo Māori highs and lows of revitalisng the language.
What is its theme?
Reo Struggles is a monthly podcast that discusses the Te Reo Māori highs and lows of revitalising the language experienced by the guest/manuhiri. Reo Struggles is for anyone seeking inspiration, guidance and encouragement with their Te Reo Māori journey. This is a podcast that is educational and also for listening pleasure too. What platforms are you on? Spotify and Podbean and I promote it on Instagram and Facebook.
Why do you podcast?
My objective is to create a platform that educates people about Te Reo Māori by the means of sharing stories by real people and real experiences.
Why did you start a podcast?
It was an idea and a discussion between friends who speak Te Reo Māori that ended up with us saying ‘we don’t need another podcast to teach us about Te Reo Māori’ (we have Taringa for that) why not share the struggles that we experience to hopefully inspire another’s Te Reo Māori journey.
What is easy to set up?
Yes, it was pretty simple. I just used my tablet and the recorder with a lapel mic to capture the kōrero. Podbean is the hosting site I use to release the episodes.
Who is you’re most interesting guest?
That’s are hard question to answer, because they were all really good and listening to each of their stories were all interesting and inspiring.
Who would be your ultimate interview talent?
Eventually I would love to interview all our Te Reo Māori National advocates and stalwarts. Trust me I know that›s going to happen so #watchthisspace
Any tips for other budding podcasters?
Yes! The only true expense to creating a podcast is TIME! Your time that you subject matter or the guest and hopefully unearth something that makes it stand apart in the sea of podcasts out there.
What does success as a podcaster look like to you?
Consistency and a unique angle that makes your podcast stand out from the rest.
What podcasts do you regularly listen to?
Taringa is my morning favourite. Outside of that I enjoy listening to some the RNZ Podcast series, really enjoyed He Kakano Ahau Series from RNZ.
Greg Rust is an well respected Australian motor racing broadcaster and commentator living in Havelock North who has his own podcast Rusty’s Garage, along with a branded pod for www.carsales.com.au (one of the biggest auto sites in Oz and a blue chip company) called ‘Watts Under The Bonnet’.
What’s your podcast name?
I actually work on two. My main one is called Rusty’s Garage which I’m very passionate about. The other is a branded pod for www.carsales.com.au (one of the biggest auto sites in Oz and a blue chip company). That podcast is called Watts Under The Bonnet and dedicated to electric cars.
What is its theme?
Rusty’s Garage, launched in early 2018, is conversations around automotive and racing with drivers, riders, engineers, administrators, broadcasters and more. Lots of great Kiwis are in there including fellow local Greg Murphy (who’s been on twice), Paul Radisich, Scott McLaughlin & recently Hayden Paddon, just to name a few. With Watts Under The Bonnet we talk
all aspects of electric cars. While I host this I am on something of a journey of discovery. I’ve learned heaps! My co-host is Aussie car journo Nadine Armstrong from CarSales.
How often do you upload a podcast?
With Rusty’s Garage it’s every week. Some are newsy ‘shortcast’ chats that run around 20 mins. Our Feature Episodes are released every fortnight and usually go for about an hour (split into two parts) Watts Under The Bonnet is a punchier format and is out fortnightly.
What platforms are you on?
They are available on all the major platforms including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. The library or podcast house they originate from is called LiSTNR – part of the big radio network called Southern Cross Austereo.
How do you promote it?
All sorts of ways but the tech now that has come out of Covid enables you to record remotely (even though I prefer face-to-face where I can). The program we use is like Zoom on steroids and it captures both video and audio so the video component can be used for socials clips we make. I share it on all my platforms – FaceBook and Instagram especially but also Threads, X and sometimes LinkedIn if I think it works for that audience.
How many followers?
Rusty’s Garage has quite a loyal following – we are now well over 5 million downloads.
Why do you podcast?
I wanted to prove that someone in their late 40’s now early 50’s could play in this space and offer something that perfectly complimented the other broadcasting I do. I love it! It has become my favourite medium. Do you earn revenue and/or drive new business for your business?The pods are commercialised so it’s about giving quality ad space to the partners and because we know everything data wise you can really tailor a package that hits a target market for them.
Why did you start a podcast?
A colleague had started an ‘all sport’ interview podcast and his introduction (to a degree) got me thinking. Some aspects of what I do with this have taken me full circle. I started in radio and it’s got a bit of a radio vibe about it. What is easy to set up and what technology/software do you use?There was a little bit of work ensuring I had equipment I could take on the road with me for face to face interviews. I have a Zoom H5 recorder, Rode mics and associated cabling in my kit. I’ve also worked hard to make a small home studio that provides the right acoustics. Pretty amazing to think I have been able to speak to world champions from the comfort of Hawke’s Bay!
Who has been you’re the most interesting guest?
I spoke to Casey Stoner on a trip to the Gold Coast. He’s a multiple world champion in MotoGP who I have known through working on the TV coverage over the years. Unbeknown to me he had been suffering with chronic fatigue and he really opened up on that battle. I was honoured that he trusted me to talk about it and the yarn was picked up by motorcycle websites all round the world. I’m a huge believer that everyone has a story. Aussie actor Eric Bana from Troy, the Hulk and the Castle has also been on along with fellow comedian Shane Jacobson. In both eps there were lots of laughs.
Who would be your ultimate interview talent?
I once interviewed Will Ferrell and John C Reilly for the movie release of Talladega Nights. They couldn’t have been nicer and I was so sore from laughing at the end of it. I’d love to do that again.
Any tips for other budding podcasters?
It’s different to other mediums. Don’t just cut ’n paste a TV, print or drama approach. You have to find a way to really connect with the audience through the subject matter or the guest and hopefully unearth something that makes it stand apart in the sea of podcasts out there.
What does success as a podcaster look like to you?
You don’t do it for the listener numbers or awards but I am very proud that Rusty’s Garage has picked up a few industry gongs along the way. Late last year it won the Best Radio Show/Podcast (one of the most competitive categories) at the Supercars Media Awards for a 3rd time. In 2023 I was also recognised by Motorsport New Zealand as Feature Journalist of the Year for the work we’ve done on the pod. The main thing for me is actually preserving some great yarns!
What podcasts do you regularly listen to?
Joe Rogan on occasion. I’m addicted to Smartless with Jason Bateman, Will Arnett and Sean Hayes. Those guys are awesome! I also love F1 – Beyond the Grid hosted by a colleague and friend Tom Clarkson.
Podcasting is the fastest growing media globally, creating fortunes and celebrity status for the likes of Joe Rogan, Bill Simmons, Karen Kilgraff and Georgia Hardstark (My favourite murder). There’s an oddity about sending questions to local podcasters for a written and published feature… Hawke’s Bay has some amazing podcast talent who enjoy sharing their experiences and knowledge in a particular interest area or interviewing influential people.
St John Craner is a respected marketer, specialising in the agri/primary sector who devours self-improvement books and uses his podcast The Rural Sales Show to support rural sales teams.
Why did you start a podcast?
Selfishly and honestly? For myself as I’ve always been a lifelong learner and Iearn so much from my guests. The secondary objective was to serve my audience more as I see way too many rural reps suffer in their jobs unnecessarily when there are answers out there and people or leaders who can help them. They just have to help themselves by listening and learning.
What is its theme?
Psychology, mindset, human behaviour, sales, fitness, leadership. All the things you need to have to be on top of your game. How often do you upload a podcast?Weekly where I can.
What platforms are you on?
All of them. My assistant Toni puts them out with the big two being Spotify and Apple.
How do you promote it?
Everywhere – email signature, LinkedIn, Facebook Group and my weekly email which goes out to about 5000 people each and every Tuesday.
How many followers?
A small but quality following that I’m growing which surprisingly is picking up followers in the US and UK as well as NZ and Australia. We are getting around 100 downloads an episode currently and that is tracking up as we get better guests on the show. Those two things go hand in hand. The key lesson here is to understand that a podcast is just one lead nurture channel. I can attribute at least $100k of training work to one podcast episode. Listening to them is what swung it for both decision makers. When you podcast regularly you are building a relationship with your audience. They get to spend time with you and get familiar to you and your voice so make sure you be you as everything else is taken. Plus your listeners will work out if you’re not being your true you.
What’s your objectives? Keep doing it.
Are you aiming to create podcast revenue and/or drive new business for your business?
Maybe in time. I am seeing some folk do a great job of monetising their email content using Substack. My go-tos are Janette Barnard of Prime Futures and my previous learning/content coach Michael Simmons (who I was lucky enough to get on the show episode #23).
What is easy to set up? What technology and software do you use?
I use a basic mic that goes great: AudioTechnica AT200. I also use Riverside FM as it records voices beautifully and much better than Zoom. Audio and listening quality are important for your listeners but you don’t need to go overboard and get all swanky and carried away with a top of the range recording studio. My assistant uses Audacity to edit. These three tools work for me just fine. The most important thing to do is just start.
Who is the most interesting you’ve had as a guest?
We’ve had a fair few and they all bring something different. I think the big one has been Andy Paul who is a NY Times best-selling author and top SalesForce sales coach in the US. His own podcast is in the top 1% of all podcasts and I was fortunate enough to get an invite on his show back in September that drops early this year. You’ll be surprised who you can get on your own show if you ask nicely and rate and review their podcast first, especially also if you make the effort to interact with them and support them genuinely on social media.
Who would be your ultimate interview?
Rory Sutherland who is Head of Strategic Planning at Ogilvy who is brilliant on human behaviour or Shane Parrish from an amazing podcast called The Knowledge Project (he also just published a great book called Clear Thinking). If they were alive it would have to be Alan Rickman, Sir Francis Bacon and Benjamin Franklin. Anthony Bourdain was a big loss too.
Any tips for other budding podcasters?
Content is king but consistency is key. Be mindful of your intent. Some cynics will say podcasting is self-indulgent. I disagree. If you genuinely want to help and serve your tribe, do it. That’s what will keep you doing it because you want to make an impact for others. I’ve done over 50 episodes and the target is 100 episodes by the end of 2024. Also don’t worry if you can’t get good guests at the start. Start small and use your own network as many will be willing to come on your show. Don’t be afraid to do shows on your own that express yourself and your own point of view. People who like the way you think will like it and those that don’t won’t. It also reminds me of that saying one of my guests gave me: “A thought leader is only someone who has original thoughts worth following”.
What does success as a podcaster look like to you?
Good question. A great listening and learning experience for the audience. Someone who asks very good questions of their guests and had great guests on their show. Steven Bartlett on Diary of a CEO is an exemplar of this.
What podcasts do you regularly listen to?
I have so many. I often download episodes by subscribing to shows before I go on long work trips which often take me out of reception rurally. I like my car to be my University and convert the downtime well. My absolute go-tos are The Knowledge Project by Shane Parrish and Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett. Others I listen to and pick from include The Psychology Podcast with Barry Kaufmann, Hidden Brain, Daily Stoic with Ryan Holiday, The High Performance Podcast and Lewis Holme’s School of Greatness. There are so many to listen to.
Podcasting is the fastest growing media globally, creating fortunes and celebrity status for the likes of Joe Rogan, Bill Simmons, Karen Kilgraff and Georgia Hardstark (My favourite murder). There’s an oddity about sending questions to local podcasters for a written and published feature… Hawke’s Bay has some amazing podcast talent who enjoy sharing their experiences and knowledge in a particular interest area or interviewing influential people. Yvonne Lorkin is a well known wine writer, entrepreneur and for insuring her tastebuds for $1 million! She’s teamed up with wine maker Dan Brennan to interview interesting local identities on their Bays of Our Lives podcast.
What is its theme/focus areas?
A podcast that unrolls the vibrant tapestry of Hawke’s Bay through extraordinary people who call this region home. From creatives to community leaders, entrepreneurs and all-round excellent people, each episode is a conversation celebrating the spirit of Hawke’s Bay through the good folk who make this place shine.
When did you launch?
We started podcasting together in December 2022 under the name The YandDPodcast and then switched to our new name and format in September 2023. How often do you upload a podcast?Bays of our Lives is biodynamically produced, wild fermented, and recorded unfined and unfiltered by Daniel Brennan and Yvonne Lorkin at Decibel Wines in downtown Hastings. Episodes are usually uploaded every week (but sometimes it takes longer depending on how busy Dan is with the winery and travel).
What platforms are you on?
Apple, Spotify, everywhere you get good podcasts (and everywhere you get crap ones too). How do you promote it?
We have our own Bays of Our Lives Facebook and Instagram pages which I share across my own personal platforms as well. We’re also thinking of building a float for the Blossom Parade. Joking. Not joking.
How many followers?
No idea. But people we see out and about seem to comment very regularly ‘are you the podcast dudes?’ so that’s cool. Our followers are the BOOLers.
Why do you produce a podcast?
To put smiles on listeners’ faces and surprise people with the depth of talent and character we have here in Hawke’s Bay.
Are you aiming to create podcast revenue and/or drive new business for your business?
Absolutely. We are very focused on growing our audience and our listeners are highly engaged – so we are superkeen to bring in advertisers and sponsors from Hawke’s Bay and beyond.
What technology and software do you use?
We used to record in a studio with the amazing Aaron at Newsong Studio on Southampton Street in Hastings, but more recently Dan has gone back to working with Garageband (which is a free app you can download from Apple). He has a little mixer and a couple of mics. I bring along my Yeti mic as well. Dan likes that when you save a file in Garageband it automatically mixes it and he also highly rates Acast for their ability to polish the files really well before they’re published.
Who is the most interesting/inspiring person that you’ve had as a guest?
That’s a tough question because they all bring something really different to the conversation. Richard Brimer, was just so easy and loose. DJ, composer and artist Darryl Thomson (DLT) was
incredible, his life story, his outlook – that was a really cool and inspiring conversation. Getting the skinny on life inside the whirlwind of women’s magazine craziness with Fiona
Fraser was wild. World famous wine personality Oz Clark was ridiculously funny and outrageous, Gilly Lawrence’s life story about growing up as a BLERTA kid and being the son of NZ film royalty was eyepopping and the artist, cartoonist Andy Heyward (King Andy of Haumoana) was just absolute gold. Each guest just seems to accentuate the depth and richness our region has.
Who would be your ultimate interview talent?
We were desperate to get British comedian Bill Bailey on while he was here on tour last year, but that didn’t happen. He’s openly spoken about how much he LOVES coming to Hawke’s
Bay so one day it’d be super groovy to interview him.
Any tips for other budding podcasters?
We’re still very much budding, so our tips probably don’t hold much weight. Umm. Don’t forget to hit ‘record’. Don’t use squeaky chairs. If you have a co-host, bring them coffee regularly.
What does success as a podcaster look like to you?
Sex, cash and coke? Seriously though, success is when our guests message us saying they enjoyed their time with us and that they have ideas for other guests that they think would have fun with us too.
What podcasts do you regularly listen to?
Right now I can’t get enough of the New Zealand Today podcast by Guy Williams and Where There’s A Will, There’s A Wake by Kathy Burke. The fact that the My Dad Wrote A Porno team are releasing ‘best of’s’ episodes has me collapsing with laughter whilst on my dog walks. My mind is continually blown by the incredible Jon Ronson and his origins of the culture wars podcast Things Fell Apart. Plus I always listen to The Fold where Duncan Greive pulls apart the New Zealand mediascape, Girls that Invest, Pivot by tech journalist Kara Swisher and NYU Professor Scott Galloway for razor-sharp, unfiltered insights into the biggest stories in tech, business, and politics AND my week is not complete without my dose of Smartless and WTF with Marc Maron. Dan is a big fan of Fareed Zakaria’s GPS podcast for CNN, My Fugitive Dad, the Wall Street Journal, Tuesdays with Stories hosted by NYC comedians Joe List and Mark Normand, and What We’re Drinking with Dan Dunn. And we both regularly listen to Freakonomics, Your Mom’s House with Tom Segura & Christina P. and Bill Burr is always brilliant.
A new exciting era has begun at one of Hawke’s Bay’s most established civil infrastructure businesses, with a change in company name that better reflects its heritage, culture, tikanga and future direction.
The name change from Russell Roads to Tūpore Infrastructure was announced in late 2023 and has been met with a positive response from its 100+ workforce as well as clients, says chief executive and new director Gavin O’Connor.
Gavin says it was a big call to move away from a 50 year old company name – Russell Roads but timing was everything. Gavin says the decision for a name change was three-fold. Ownership changes which first begun when Robbie and Michelle Gale bought into the Russell family business in 2015 are now completed. The Gales took over full ownership in 2019 and at the end of 2023 Gavin and wife Katie were joined as business partners.
The business was also expanding its service offering from building road and pavements to land and river based quarry operations and operating one of only two asphalt plants in the region.
“It was a big shift (to change from Russell Roads) but it has been well received and has set a positive tone as we look to grow the business and position it as ‘best in sector’ as a full service civil infrastructure firm providing source material such as aggregate, manufactured product in Bitumen, through to building the roads and pavements across the region and beyond.
“We firmly and proudly know that what we do makes a positive difference, whether that be building safer road networks through to being a major employer and contributor within our community.”
Gavin says evidence that the new name is a winner came when staff working on the Devils Elbow cyclone rebuild between Napier and Wairoa proudly wrote it on the retaining wall they were constructing.
“We had a staff lunch on our first day back for the year and watched the company video that tells the story of our business and ‘our why’ and it was meet with a big round of applause.
“They’re proud to wear the badge. One of our young foreman came to me and said ‘we’re only as good as our last job’ so we’ve got to perform at our best on every project. Timing of the name change also coincides with securing a Waka Kotahi road safety project contract in Taupo, its first foray out of Hawke’s Bay.
Gavin says the business isn’t strongly focussed on an out of region growth strategy, but will take on opportunities should they arise as he’s mindful that Hawke’s Bay has a heavy infrastructure workstream with cyclone repairs of road and bridge networks is estimated to at over $800million.
“We don’t want to get over-excited about opportunities miles from home when there’s still lots to be done here.
We are in a strong position as we can supply materials to help with the rebuild as well as doing much of the work.” Gavin is hoping Tūpore is selected as a preferred civils contractor on the HDC cyclone rebuild programme.
Tūpore is also in the early stages of developing plans for a new asphalt plant in Omahu Road, Hastings, which will double current capacity and also minimise any environmental impact by using renewable energy sources.
“It will be a big boost for the region, especially with the materials required as part of the rebuild and the need for quality asphalt. The company is also hoping to gain resource consent for quarry operations on the Ngaruroro River, near Maraekakaho, which will ensure local supply of aggregate to meet huge demand.
It has a land-based quarry in Mohaka that will service infrastructure and build projects north of Napier; a river based consent for part of the Tukituki in the CHB catchment, but Gavin says it’s also vital to the industry to source from the proposed Maraekakaho quarry.
“That’s the 2024 goal to secure local aggregate supply that is secure and resilient with top quality construction materials, because the demand is huge. “We also need to start looking at our business and its long term future.
At the moment we have a heavy reliance on capital work, mostly provided by local authorities and government agencies.
“A maintenance and operations contract is a natural next step from the response and rebuild works we’ve been leading across Hastings and CHB.”
Current projects include safety improvements on SH5 between Awatoto and Marine Parade, silt remediation on behalf of Napier City Council and road widening on Waimarama Road. Robbie and Michelle are particularly proud that the success of the business has had a positive impact on their staff – providing career opportunities for many that have previously relied on Ministry for Social Development.
They introduced a profit-share for staff with end of year bonusses and have contributed in excess of $250,000 directly into the community through their charitable trust. “We’re proud to see new people joining the industry and coming in to our business including through our work with MSD which has helped return people to work and had the added benefit of increasing our female field workforce from 1 to 8,” Robbie says.
“The George Trust is also something that is very important to us, as we know many whanau are struggling financially and if we can make their lives a little bit easier, that’s a positive outcome for whanau and the entire community,” says Michelle.
Three sport organisations at the forefront of increasing participation, health and wellbeing and supporting our top athletes to reach the pinnacle of their sport have new leaders at the helm. Sport Hawke’s Bay has promoted Ryan Hambleton to chief executive while the Regional Sports Park Trust (RSPT) has Glenn Lucas as its new chief executive and Hawke’s Bay Community Fitness Centre Trust (HBCFCT) has recruited experienced event manager Brendan Bourke.
The three men face big challenges, especially when it comes to funding, programme delivery and ongoing investment into facilities. RST and HBCFCT, both based at Mitre 10 Sports Park in Hastings also need to confront and come to a conclusion on a much touted merger that’s been stalled for some time. The Profit catches up with Ryan, Glenn and Brendan as they look to make an impression in their new roles.
Experienced event manager focusses on long-term financial sustainability
Brendan Bourke, originally from Taranaki has a background in the planning and delivery of Major Events both in NZ and around the world such as the Melbourne Commonwealth Games 2006 and Rugby World Cup’s in France 2007 and 2011 in NZ.
He was tournament director for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup in 2018 and worked for leading event management company Lagardere Unlimited delivering the ITU Triathlon World Series, Queenstown International Marathon, Hawke’s Bay International Marathon and the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2015. He also spent nearly three years working for Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli on the 36th America’s Cup in Auckland, before his last major event role, as Head of Operations for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
Brendan’s role with HBCFCT is to oversee the people and the programmes managed at the state-of-the-art facility at Mitre10 Sports Park that includes EIT Institute of Sport & Health, Hawke’s Bay Regional Aquatic Centre, powered by Pak’nSave, the Avery Hostel and in community outreach as far as Wairoa. HBCFCT has grown to become a significant player in the wellbeing, youth development and sport participation at grassroots and high performance levels.
Brendan says his key early focus is on ensuring the trust is financially viable, signalling both cost cuts and identifying new revenue streams. “I’m going to be looking into all avenues where revenue can be generated within our confines, and also taking a good look at where money is being spent, to ensure we are getting bang for our buck. “As a charitable trust, it’s critical for us to be spending money wisely, and at the same time ensuring we are delivering on our vision of creating a healthy Hawke’s Bay.
“Budget management plays a key part in a charitable trust like ours and I’m keen to do what we can here to operate as efficiently as possible, without taking away any of the good that we currently offer. We’re just greasing the wheels a little to make things run a little smoother.
HBCFCT will continue to deliver its Learn to Swim and Water Safety programmes throughout the year with local schools along with looking at growing gym membership by increasing fitness classes as well as trying to get greater use out of all facilities. “There is one or two other ideas in the pipeline but a little more work needs to be done before we discuss those openly.”
A big event for HBCFCT is the hosting of the back to back NZ Swimming Champs from 9-13 April, followed by the NZ Age Group Swimming Champs from 15-19 April which will see New Zealand’s top swimmers aiming to qualify for the Paris Olympics in July. HBCFCT is heavily reliant on sponsorship and user fee revenue and facilities such as the Pak’nSave Hastings Hawke’s Bay Regional Aquatic Centre are expensive to operate as is providing programmes for free or at a small fee. Brendan says having a strong relationship with the local business community is vital and is ongoing. As well as Pak’nSave Hastings, the trust is well supported by Apollo Projects, Royston Health Trust and Hurford Parker.
“As a charitable trust, sourcing funding and sponsorship is always going to keep us on our toes, so we’re putting in some good groundwork in early 2024 to ensure all our programmes can be delivered to the highest possible level. He says the more users of facilities and programmes, the greater appeal for businesses and other funding organisations to be a partner.
“We have over 700 aquatic members and in 2023 we delivered over 15,500 learn to swim lessons across the year. “Royston Health Trust are our major sponsor who, without their generosity we would not have been able to deliver almost 17,000 Learn to Swim lessons in 2023, which directly assisted over 2,100 local school children and Hurford Parker sponsor our Water Safety Programme, which delivered 1,068 lessons. TUMU Group is the lead sponsor for our Te Tūranga Athlete Development Programme and the Education Outside the Classroom Programme is supported by Baker Tilly Staples Rodway.
This year HBCFCT will launch Project Hope, initially in Central Hawke’s Bay, which will allow youth restricted by geography or socio-economic status to be exposed to similar opportunities as those based in Napier and Hastings.
“We are looking to diversify what we are currently delivering, so we do have some opportunities for local businesses to put their name alongside one of these, which is really going to benefit our youth.
Sport HB head sets sights on new strategy
Ryan Hambleton has hit the ground running as the new chief executive of the region’s lead sport trust, determined to lift its role as a key influencer when it comes to getting more people active.
He’s no new kid on the block, having started seven years ago with the trust in a commercial manager role and then appointed general manager in 2020 – developing strong relationships with local councils, businesses and sport code and club network. Despite great weather and sport infrastructure, Hawke’s Bay isn’t the most active region. 44% of Hawke’s Bay students do not participate in physical activity, 10.9% higher than nationally.
“It has been well documented the declining participation rates for rangatahi and while this will continue to be a challenge, I also have hope that with so many dedicated, passionate and knowledgeable people who often volunteer their time, young people have more opportunities than ever.
Sport New Zealand, the main funder of Sport HB is set to release a new active strategy, and SHB is also reviewing its strategy, providing Ryan with an opportunity to make his mark.
“We are in an exciting phase as we continue to work alongside Sport NZ and key contract partners to start to plan what the future looks like.
“I want to be advocating for this work with our partners which includes territorial authorities, health providers, sport organisations and post settlement groups and to ensure Sport HB is regarded as an influential partner across the region. “We have some great new and existing initiatives that will support the region in more ways than one.
The Sport NZ funded initiatives such as ‘Active As’ and ‘Health Active Learning’ are two in which Sport HB supports kura to get their young people more active and living a healthier lifestyle.
“We are working directly with 55 primary schools through Healthy Active Learning and an additional five secondary schools through Active As which works to support sport and physical activity and complement education and health outcomes. “This is an exciting development and one that will continue to have a lasting impact on tamariki and rangatahi across the Bay.”
Ryan has the pedigree to succeed. Born and bred in Hawke’s Bay, he was the commercial and marketing manager at Sport Wellington before returning to the region in 2016 for a similar role at SHB before moving into a general manager role in 2020, managing partnerships with Sport NZ, councils and community funders.
“I’ve always wanted to make a positive impact in a leadership role in Hawke’s Bay. Being local, I understand what makes Hawke’s Bay tick and look forward to continuing to support the sector going forward. “I’m very keen to take the organisation to a new level to ensure Sport HB is regarded as an influential partner with councils, health organisations and the play active recreation and sport sector.
The last three years have been far from normal. First COVID 19 saw limited participation in sport and events, then the cyclone damaged sport infrastructure as well as ease of access with some communities cut off from the wider region and today funding is tightening. “There are many challenges we face as a region, especially since the Cyclone.
“Play, active recreation, health and sport are fundamental to the overall wellbeing of our communities, so it is important organisation we continue to advocate for and promote the benefits of being physically active.
“We need to make sure that all people of all ages, ethnicities and communities in Hawke’s Bay have opportunities to participate in play, active recreation and sport. We acknowledge the financial pressure our partners will face in the The Regional Sports Park prior to the new aquatic centre years to come and the impact this will have on our sector.
Sport HB doesn’t get significant funding from local businesses but is eyeing new opportunities. It’s biggest connection is with the annual Hawke’s Bay Sport Awards, supported by lead sponsor Forsyth Barr. The event and a smaller scale awards in Central Hawke’s Bay provide a major platform for SHB and the sport sector to celebrate sport and recreation.
“These events attract close to a combined 1000 people and provide business and the active recreation and sport sector a chance to mix and mingle and celebrate success from across the region. “I have had experience in previous roles in partnering with local businesses to match business regional sports trust can offer and moving forward I am looking at ways in which we can expand our programmes to further support the business sector.
Challenges ahead for new GM
Glenn Lucas has several big challenges ahead as GM of the Hawke’s Bay Regional Sports Park Trust. Mitre 10 Sports park was established in 2007 as a replacement facility to Nelson Park as home for Hastings Athletics Club. Since then it has grown immensely with many sport codes using the expansive park including hockey, netball, canoe polo, rugby league, football, touch rugby, boxing and crossfit.
It’s also the home of Central Districts Cricket and the land is shared with the Hawke’s Bay Community Fitness Centre Trust, which has its three large facilities. Glenn has taken over at a challenging time as some assets start to show their wear and tear. In 2023, both netball and athletics raised concerns about the state of netball courts and the athletics track. Athletics is at risk of losing its status as a premier track, due to it needing to be replaced at a cost in excess of $750,000.
Athletics Hastings had hoped that this work would be underway in early 2024, but fundraising has been challenging. outcomes with what a It’s not lost on Glenn to the enormity of the challenge ahead. “We are in effect the landlord of the park. The role is managing relationships with our sporting partners and tenant management of the asset to deliver to the needs of our sports and events partners and users.
“We work with event promoters to put on all sorts of community and sporting events and management of the more strategic and future-focused aspects of the park.” He says other big priorities for 2024 include improvements to parking, traffic flow and wayfinding, which is cause for constant concerns by all users; establishing good relationships with all partners, funders and stakeholders, and building a sense of welcoming and belonging to the park across broad and diverse Hawke’s Bay community.
“One of the biggest challenges is the constant tension between making sport and recreation affordable and ensuring that our clubs and regional sporting organisations generate sufficient income to continue the amazing work that they do. “This is a constant tightrope walk for many of our sporting organisations and our role in this is to make our part of the equation affordable and works in partnership will all of our tenants, sports and events partners to identify where cost efficiencies can be accessed.
Glenn is keen to develop a closer relationship with HBCFCT to better tell the story of the overall park and to provide a seamless experience. “The HBCFCT is a critical partner for us. For the general public they have no idea that there are two separate trusts that are responsible for activities on the park, so the more that we can collaborate, tell a joined up story and providing a seamless interface to partners and users the better the service we will provide and the stronger the whole park will be.”
There has been discussions between the two trusts, Sport HB and Hastings District Council to explore a merger for more than two years but any plans seem to have fallen over. The Profit asked both trusts if this was likely to happen, with HBCFCT Trust chair Iain Taylor not wanting to comment while his counterpart Tania Kerr said “No discussions are currently taking place in relation to a merger. We are continuing to work with HBCFCT on operational matters, for the benefit of tenants, all park users and the Hawke’s Bay community”.
Glenn says he will look to build stronger partnerships and collaboration with all the partners and stakeholders in and around the park.
“We can share expertise, help each other and deliver a better and more tailored product to our community. “In addition to the organised sports participation that is our bread and butter and will continue to be a large part of what we do – looking to encourage more informal active participation at the park through the way we develop our asset, engage potentials partners to bridge into communities that do not use the facility and tell our story through promotions and media. Glenn is also keen to grow its sponsorship base.
“This is an area that for me beyond the relationships that we have with our sponsors is a real opportunity to get better at. We work with these sponsors to provide value matched to their outcomes sought – both commercial and social good outcomes.”
Ikigai (生き甲斐, “a reason for being”) is a Japanese concept referring to having a direction or purpose in life, providing a sense of fulfilment, and towards which the person may take actions, giving them satisfaction and a sense of meaning.
Understanding your Ikigai is the key to waking up like a kid on Christmas morning, inspired to go to work, feel safe and motivated while you are there, and go home fulfilled at the end of the day. Over the years I have worked hard to find my Ikigai and share the concept with those around me.
It is a healthy and happy way to live. I often get asked for examples of people that are truly following their Ikigai. One guy that is always high on my list is Andrew McCrory. Andrew is a local legend and all round good sort.
When I first started coaching him five years ago he told me that his ultimate goal was to one day run the Badwater 135 Ultramarathon through Death Valley. Having crewed at this event in 2008 for another Kiwi Lisa Tamati, I had a good understanding of what was going to be required to complete this mission.
One of the key factors is a strong purpose or Ikigai. Andrew definitely has this.
So what exactly is the Badwater 135?
It’s globally recognised as the toughest footrace on Earth. Runners start at Badwater Basin in California (which is 85m below sea level) and finish at the Whitney Portal (500m above sea level.) There is a total of 4500m elevation across the 135 mile/217km course which must be completed in 48 hours. It’s all run on road in extreme temperatures up to 54 degrees.
This is no walk in the park. The Badwater 135 is and always has been an invitational race. Applicants are considered purely upon their race application and its specific written merits. They are then selected to run in July of that year via a live Facebook announcement. There is a strict entry criteria which involves running at least four ultra-running races of 100 continuous miles or longer with one of them being between January 1, 2023 and the day of submitting the application.
There is only one preferred qualifying race in New Zealand and that is the Northburn 100 in Cromwell. Andrew McCrory has been working towards running the Badwater 135 since he began ultra-running 5 years ago. He has completed many ultras including five runs over 100 miles and the Northburn 100 in March 2023. He has also run the length of New Zealand, completing 2,060km over Christmas and New Years 2021/22.
While Andrew is undertaking these amazing feats he also raises money for charity. His main charity is helping children with Cerebral Palsy to get Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy surgery in America and helping with the intensive rehabilitation once they return home. He has also raised money for other organisations such as I AM HOPE which supports mental health, and the NZ RSA Poppy Fund which supports all Service veterans. All up so far he has raised close to $90,000.
In July, Andrew will be realizing his goal as he stands at the start line of the 2024 Badwater 135. One of the few Kiwi’s to ever be selected to compete in this race he considers himself privileged to be there. He’s taking his fundraising efforts to a global stage and wants to continue to help many more New Zealand children to achieve their dream of being able to walk. He’s on the lookout for sponsors – so please reach out if that sounds like you. Once you have clarity on your Ikigai you can achieve some very cool things.
For inspiration you can follow Andrew and his build up to Badwater by checking out: @Running Aotearoa for SDR on Facebook or Andrew McCrory Ultra Runner on Instagram Or schedule a session with Neil to check if your Ikigai is on point.
Neil Wagstaff is the owner of Peak Fitness in Havelock North. He has over 25 years experience in the health and fitness industry. www.peakfitnessandhealth.co.nz
Proposed funding cuts to Hawke’s Bay Tourism will have a catastrophic effect on the region’s economy, with more than $250 million likely to disappear from local businesses, if the cuts go ahead.
Hawke’s Bay Regional Council’s proposal to defund visitor attraction over three years would, in reality, force Hawke’s Bay Tourism to shut up shop in July with the lights going out on many iconic events, the end of Hawke’s Bay’s off-shore profile, and a flow-on hit to many local businesses and workers – not just in tourism, says Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chairman and leading tourism expert George Hickton.
The region’s visitor economy will contract by at least 20 percent – or $260 million – over the three-year lifespan of the regional council’s Long Term Plan, if the regional tourism organisation is forced to close, says the former Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand.
“Hawke’s Bay Regional Council’s preferred option is not an option at all. It is simply not viable. It would see a closure of Hawke’s Bay Tourism on July 1, and along with it the end of a thriving visitor economy, one of the most important economic drivers for Hawke’s Bay,” says Hickton.
Hawke’s Bay Tourism is fighting to protect the region’s visitor economy, after Hawke’s Bay Regional Council this week sent their Long Term Plan (LTP) to community consultation.
Two options are being considered in the LTP for investment in visitor attraction:
HBRC’s “preferred” option proposes Hawke’s Bay Tourism is completely defunded over a period of two years, with significant funding cuts within the first year.
The second option – Option B – is Hawke’s Bay Tourism’s counter proposal, which is supported by the region’s mayors and sees funding maintained at its current level of $1.52 million for FY24/25, with local councils agreeing to step in and fund visitor attraction directly alongside HBRC for the final two years of the LTP period.
More is at risk than people realise if Hawke’s Bay Tourism is shut up shop, says Hickton, with many events and activities forced to cancel, including:
F.A.W.C!
The Great Wine Capitals Global Network programme
Hawke’s Bay Tourism’s support of the Hawke’s Bay Marathon
Significant out of region promotion for major events, including Art Deco Festival
Promotion of the region outside of Hawke’s Bay
Profiles of the region within media publications, online and on TV
Extensive travel trade programmes and relationships
“Simply put, other regions would snap up our market share and Hawke’s Bay would become a tourism backwater,” he says.
“The very Hawke’s Bay way-of-life that so many people come here for, would be at risk. The $1.3 billion of direct and indirect benefit to Hawke’s Bay spreads far and wide. Only 20 percent of this goes to tourism businesses, with the rest going into the community and helping fund the lifestyle of locals.
“Councillors say this is a plan of recovery and resilience and with eyes to the future . . . however it massively threatens the resilience of the region’s economy.
“Hawke’s Bay’s visitor economy is the third highest contributor to regional GDP, it employs one in 10 locals. What’s more, Hawke’s Bay Tourism is the only element of the Regional Council’s remit that drives economic revenue. The rest of their activity is about spend with no revenue.”
Supporting the sustainability and resilience of Hawke’s Bay’s visitor economy is not a luxury, says Hickton.
“If we take our foot off the accelerator now and long-term damage is done, it will take much more money and a very long time to catch up lost ground.
“So, we are vigorously advocating for Option B and are encouraged by the formal support from Napier City, Hastings District and Central Hawke’s Bay District mayors to make this happen.
“A vibrant visitor economy is not just good for tourism and hospitality businesses and their employees; it’s good for everyone,” says Hickton.
