For years, the conversation around artificial intelligence has centred on one unsettling idea: machines replacing people. But in Napier, the global AI boom is doing the opposite. It is creating jobs, driving investment, and putting Hawke’s Bay at the heart of the infrastructure that keeps the digital world running. At
Gifford Devine’s growing team of young lawyers is shaping the future of one of Hawke’s Bay’s most established law firms. Supported by experienced partners and a collaborative culture, they’re gaining broad experience across the firm’s wide range of legal services. From property and commercial to family law, they represent a
In 1985, not long after joining Hastings District Council, Mark Clews ran a team workshop imagining a world of plastic money, internet shopping, and remote work. At the time, it sounded far-fetched. Thirty-five years later, as he prepares to retire, it reads like a blueprint for the modern economy. Mark’s
Taurus Taurima stepped under the Atrium lights in Hastings and paused, just long enough for the weight of his words to land. “I had to put my children and my family first and leave the old life behind so people could trust me.” You could have heard a pin drop.
The evolution of Havelock North’s CBD tells a compelling story of thoughtful development and design innovation. As the village continues to grow, local architects and interior designers are playing a pivotal role in creating spaces that blend functionality with sustainability, while maintaining the area’s distinctive character. A Village Transformed Recent
Hastings District Council Chief Executive Nigel Bickle sees 2025 as a pivotal year for the region’s ongoing recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle, while expressing cautious optimism about economic growth and development opportunities ahead. Through a jointly funded government and council initiative, 167 properties across Hastings and Napier were identified for voluntary
Grant Caunter was a big beer drinker. It was pretty hard not to be when you’re the global director of craft and variety beer for Heineken based in Amsterdam. However, although he loved beer, he wasn’t that keen on its alcohol content, as it was having a negative impact on
Darren Shand thrives in high pressure situations but it’s not the All Blacks nail biting one point win over France in the 2011 World Cup Final that gave him the confidence to perform under pressure. Darren was the manager of the All Blacks for 20 years where he worked alongside
Tony Martin is a high achiever that’s keen to support other locals to enhance their own performance. Tony featured in the November 2023 issue of The Profit in his capacity as chief executive of Prevar, the organisation at the forefront of innovation and commercialisation of new apples and pears from
The Regional Economic Development agency has appointed Lucy Laitinen as chief executive. Lucy comes from a CE role at Anglican Care Waiapu and has also had several roles with World Vision. The Regional Economic Development agency is another reincarnation of the region’s many approaches to boosting the economy, attracting and
