More households and businesses are capturing the rays from the sun as a way to reduce electricity costs and ensure continuity of power during a short or extended outage. Freeenergy Solar Solutions owner Aaron Duncan says todays customers are more educated on the benefits of solar than when he became one of the first dedicated solar energy providers in Hawke’s Bay in 2007.

He had recently returned from his OE and had seen the emergence of solar energy in Europe. Aaron says solar was pretty expensive in the early days and was more appealing for the environmentally minded, rather than those looking for cheaper electricity.

He says this has certainly changed over the last five years, with a return on investment being between around 6-8 years. Battery storage technology is also now more affordable and due to Cyclone Gabrielle cutting power to thousands of homes and businesses, being resilient is top of mind. “It was expensive very early on. For example a three kilowatt system back then would cost about $20000 and today it’s about $2000 a kW and the technology has advanced significantly.”

Today solar panels are very affordable, battery storage is now also affordable and both mainstream banks and the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council offer financing, based on the environmental benefits of solar.

“Only five years ago when we would get people coming to home shows asking ‘what’s this?’ whereas today many people understand the benefits and know someone that uses solar energy.” Residential solar installs in New Zealand are at 3 percent with overall generation less than 1% of total energy in NZ. Australia’s install rate is over 30% with 32% of Australia’s total electricity generation was from renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydro.

The last three years has seen strong growth for solar in Hawke’s Bay due to COVID19 and last year’s devastating cyclone.

“During Covid household power consumption increased as we all worked from home, and this saw people look for cheaper electricity options while the cyclone cut power to over 60,000 homes. Aaron says houses and businesses with battery storage had continuity of electricity while those with only solar panels were cut off, just like other electricity line users. “It was a bit of a wake call for everyone and we have had a lot of solar customers since upgrade to battery storage.”

The commercial sector has a greater appetite for solar, as it also ticks their carbon footprint box as well as reducing overheads. Recent large commercial installs include Central Hawke’s
Bay electricity lines business Centralines, land consultancy business Development Nous, Ramage Sheetmetals, Flaxmere College while a recent community project was a resilience solution for the Maraekakaho Community, with a solar and battery install on their hall to act as a civil defence centre in an extended power outage.

“We are seeing an increase in commercial and industrial solar systems as power prices continue to rise and business become more conscious of their carbon emissions.

“We now offer commercial financial packages and power purchase agreements, where a system can be installed for no up front cost and is cashflow positive from day one.”

Ramage Sheetmetals in Napier was a relative early adopter for commercial solar in HB.

We installed 112 panels in 2017 and the system paid for itself in less then 5 years and is now earning them a significantly lower energy bill as utility rates continue to rise.

“The technical design, performance modelling, installation and after sales service have been excellent and we are exceeding our calculated Return on Investment of 5 years. As a significant user of electricity during the daytime it makes financial and environmental sense. Our only complaint is we have no more roof to add more panels,” says general manager Daniel Lincoln. Freenergy provides your full service with in house, sales, design, installation, tech support & after sales service.

With multiple national Solar Industry Awards, we are a local business you can trust. Residential Solar offers a return on investment of over 10% while Commercial is often over 20%.

www.freeenergy.co.nz

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.

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.

www.tupore.co.nz

Int. Workspaces specialises in the specification, design, supply and installation of office spaces and furniture throughout New Zealand. Owned by Isaac and Tarryn Scott Int. Workspaces client base includes local councils, schools, government and corporations. Int. also have a specialised Library Division which is a preferred supplier for most local councils throughout New Zealand.

The process involves a detailed discussion with the client, a workplace visit and a chat about their needs and wants. int.workspaces will then design a layout which is presented in 3D form. Once the client is happy with the design a quote is prepared. The furniture and fittings will be supplied and installed and the client and employees can enjoy a brand new, comfortable, fully functional office space.

Int. Workspaces was called on to assist a large number of local businesses like Higgins Contractors, Ziwi and Ravensdown following Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023. It helped that Isaac and Tarryn had an internal design, specification and installation team, and with businesses looking for assistance, Int. was able to lean on its expertise to provide a number of services to ensure each individual unique requirements were met.

Given the varied destruction caused by Cyclone Gabrielle each client had its own challenges to face in the days and months following. Int.’s ability to pivot to meet these challenges meant that businesses had a smooth transition into temporary spaces and then through to rebuilt spaces. Int’s assistance ranged from creation of asset registers for insurance purposes, temporary furniture, and office relocations for short term solutions through to design, specification, and installation of office fittouts following the rebuild of premises.

Niki Russell of Higgins Contractors Limited said team at Int.workspaces stepped up to refit their offices in Awatoto.

“It has been great to use a local business where their knowledge and experience has been fundamental in making this whole process easier.

“Having someone local has also meant that one on one meetings could be held where decisions about furniture or colour choices could be made on the spot, as well as having them on hand to do measure ups. Thank you, Team Int. workspaces,” Niki says.

Ravensdown was also significantly impacted, losing its admin building in Awatoto, forcing them into a makeshift Portacom village.

“Six months later we finally had a temporary office and we were introduced to Int. Workspaces by our project team. Int.workspaces provided furniture that best suited our workspace with options that aligned with our corporate branding. Being local meant we could visit their showroom to view samples and they even helped us move in. Their level of service meant we could carry on with business without the added stress of relocating and we now have a lovely space to work in,” said Tania Smith.

Ziwi had only opened their modern facility in Awatoto when the cyclone struck. They had worked with Int.workspaces for the initial fit out and was able to call on their services again.

Hannah Christensen of Ziwi Pets says “We are extremely grateful for the exceptional support provided by Int. Workspaces during the challenging time post Cyclone Gabriele. ZIWI Limited
(“ZIWI”), has always been very pleased to partner with Int. Workspaces during our formation in Hawkes Bay.

“However, following the February floods that damaged our offices, Int. Workspaces reached out and went above and beyond – not only offering temporary workspace for our people who were displaced but also by swiftly providing temporary furniture to ensure our teams could resume operations promptly where possible. “Throughout the rebuild and reopening process, the collaboration between ZIWI and Int. Workspaces has been seamless.

Both teams have been working closely to compile asset registers and replacement value quotes for our insurers, demonstrating both parties’ commitment to ensuring a smooth recovery process.

“What truly sets Int. Workspaces apart is their dedication to addressing immediate needs while assisting for the long-term. Int. Workspaces played a crucial role in setting up temporary offices for ZIWI efficiently, as we embarked on the cyclone rebuild and this partnership continues in our ongoing growth aspirations.

“We truly value Int. Workspaces in their expertise in designing and specifying workplace furniture, cafeteria furniture, and hospitality equipment – their expertise and experience is invaluable. Int. Workspaces not only provided a physical space to work but has become a trusted partner in our journey to recovery and for future projects in Hawke’s Bay and beyond (they’re national thank goodness!).

“Their professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail have left a lasting positive impact on our organisation. Without hesitation ZIWI recommends the services of Int. Workspaces to any business in need of workspace solutions and support for day-to-day operations, growth and during challenging times,” says Hannah.

While int.workspaces services the whole of New Zealand, Hawke’s Bay is the hub of the business and it’s here that equipment is assembled and from there it’s transported to site, installed, wiring completed so clients have a fully operational workplace environment to move into.

Isaac and the team welcome inquiries from new and existing clients and look forward to working with you to ensure everyone has an integrated, intuitive, intelligent workspace. Their showroom is located at 407 Eastbourne Street West.

Like a musical conductor, experienced property development managers Logan Taylor and Marcus Hill make many moving parts be in harmony to ensure development opportunities are maximised. Logan and Marcus have teamed up to launch Orchestra Property specialising in development management, project management and commercial property management.

“We are managing on behalf of developers a significant investment that in some cases can take many years to be realised. “We are conductors and we bring together the many parts of completing a successful residential, industrial or commercial development project for our clients.

“We put our arms around every part of the project, the developer and property owner, the wide range of expert consultants that form part of the team as well as having solid connections within local authorities,” says Logan.

Both Marcus and Logan have strong track records in development management and property developments prior to joining forces. Orchestra has already aligned with private developers, property fund managers, family trusts, iwi, post settlement governance entities and Māori trusts. Logan’s involvement in his family property development business inspired career moves to both Auckland and Wellington, where he moved into the development consultancy space, before moving home to start his own consultancy.

He’s cultivated a diverse skillset in commercial, industrial, residential and land development services for clients across the public, private and Māori sectors. Marcus’ background has also been in property including post-university study and work experience in Europe. He is a chartered member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors and is a licensed REAA agent. Before setting up his own consultancy he was general manager for a large HB property development company.

He’s also a licensed agent under the REAA and has been general manager for a large Hawke’s Bay property development company before setting up his own consulting business.

“We understand that every project is unique. Orchestra Property is committed to eliminating stress from the development lifecycle through sound advice, risk mitigation and a hands-on approach to client management and delivery.

Orchestra Property also offers commercial property management services and manages a multi-million commercial precinct in Joll Road, Havelock North, which has a wide mix of retail, hospitality and commercial tenants across two stages. Stage 3 of the complex is set to get underway soon.

“We take the hassle out of property ownership and our service includes all the tasks and responsibilities required to protect the investors income stream and optimise the value of the investment. Marcus says he and Logan have developed strong working relationships supporting Maori Post Settlement Governence Entities from Hawke’s Bay to as far north as Thames as they look to maximise their land holdings for the betterment of their people.

“Māori have different drivers in what they regard as a successful development, which is something that we have embraced. They’re not focussed only on profitability, they are also invested in ensuring whanau have a quality home in a subdivision that is also focussed on social and community outcomes.

“That’s not to say there’s not a close eye on the financial viability, that’s the role we play to ensure that the development is delivered to expectations. “We also attempt to break down red tape when it comes to streamlining a land or building consent and that’s where our strong relationships within councils plays a key role. We make sure that it’s as seamless a process as possible. Marcus has been instrumental in the success of a large scale development with Tamatea Pokai Whenua (the post settlement governance entity for Heretaunga Tamatea) on the eastern edge of Flaxmere that has been granted consent through the Government’s Covid fast track consenting process.

Orchestra has provided development management services for the circa 450 lot development named ‘Wairatahi’ from the initial purchase of 28ha of land, working closely with the commercial board and wealth managers along with managing of a large team of expert consultants from around the country.

“This is a game changing housing development that will be one of the largest of its kind in Hawke’s Bay, which will offer a mix of home ownership options and build a real sense of community.” Tamatea Pokai Whenua have invested in class leading designs with a strong focus on water management and riparian enhancement whilst seeking to deliver more affordable housing offerings in the Hastings area.

Orchestra Property worked closely with the Hastings District Council and the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council throughout the Government fast track planning process. www.orchestraproperty.co.nz

Local 3 waters specialists Drainways has played a large role in the Hastings District Council’s $90 million drinking water infrastructure project, having been involved since 2016. Back in 2016, thousands of Havelock North residents fell ill from contaminated drinking water from nearby bores.

In the fallout from the crisis, the council committed to a major overhaul of its drinking water provisions. A key first step was the decommissioning of the Havelock North bores and a re-network of water from Hastings. Drainways was awarded the contract to upgrade the watermain in Te Mata Road, which became a catalyst for a more significant role, that has seen the Hastings based firm involved throughout a journey that will ensure the delivery of safe drinking water to over 60,000 housholds.

Drainways director Brendan Currie said as well as the watermain projects – which started in Havelock North and went all the way into the Hastings CBD, the family based firm was head contractor in the establishment of a new water treatment and storage facility in Frimley Park and the showcase Waiaroha water treatment and storage facility.

Drainways did all underground infrastructure, foundation preparation and civil works on these projects, along with having project managers running the entire builds.

Brendan reflects back at to 2016/17 and how the project has challenged the firm but created a platform to enhance its capability and reputation as a 3 waters infrastructure firm.

“We are a growing and ambitious company that didn’t know the scale of this water investment back then but definitely wanted more of what we could get.  “We have a vision to provide for the future health and wellbeing of communities through the construction of fresh water and drainage systems that are built to last, so this project certainly provided a platform for us to deliver on that.

He says some of the challenges along the way included gaining ISO qualifications (H&S, Quality and Environmental) as well as becoming an approved service contractor for HDC and NCC.

“That was both challenging but very rewarding and was achieved through sheer determination, grit and team work from everyone within the company. He said what helped was building a strong relationship with the council as well as other local businesses involved – always striving to maintain this through great communication, excellent customer service and first class quality.

“On any project, but particularly projects of this scale is the importance of having competent project management that understands programs and can keep all trades focussed, aligned and happy.

Different challenges pop up every day but you need to have a laser like focus on the end goal and be pro-active and deal with them positively as they occur.

Communication is key – everyone performs better if they understand the bigger picture and are not just focussed on their area.

“We’ve built good relationships with other companies throughout this journey creating some strong lifelong working relationships. The most enjoyable aspect has been getting towards completion and knowing that the facilities and infrastructure will deliver safe drinking water to residents across the district.

“It is very rewarding to be involved in
a project that has such a wide purpose and will be an integral and vital part of our city infrastructure for many years to come.

Brendan says his favourite part of the Waiaroha treatment facility is what the public can’t see. The components within the Water Treatment Plant are very impressive. The electrical, mechanical and Scada in behind the scenes are what make the plant’s work but will never be recognised if you hadn’t been part of the journey.