Michele Griffin 10/9/23 Michele Griffin 10/9/23

Share to care

Do you really need a car? The answer may surprise you. GoTo Car Share’s founder Steven Vincent explains the environmental and financial benefits of only using a car when you need to

Do you really need a car? The answer may surprise you. GoTo Car Share’s founder Steven Vincent explains the environmental and financial benefits of only using a car when you need to.

Words Karl Puschmann

Car sharing is a concept that’s popular in many major metropolitan cities across the globe, but one that has been slow to arrive in Tauranga.
Until now.

GoTo Car Share is the first such service to zoom across the starting line here in the Bay. And because the company was started by locals it’s been created with a mission to be as environmentally friendly as possible to help not only ease traffic congestion in and around the CBD but also sustain the natural beauty of our renowned beaches and environment.

“Having electric vehicles (EVs) only was part of the plan all along,” Steven Vincent, GoTo’s founder, explains. “It’s about sharing resources and having an environmentally conscious solution for business and people.”

Starting GoTo Car Share happened organically. Steven and some business partners had already formed the office-sharing company Basestation in Durham Street where freelancers and small business owners could rent a desk, meeting room or office for anywhere between an hour to a more lengthy commitment. His team had a fleet of four cars and he began to see the waste in having to park, insure and pay for cars that spent most of their time idle.

“We started thinking about whether we needed the cars at all as they only got used 10 percent of the time,” Steven says. “So we talked about how we could share those cars with other people and get more use out of them. It wasn’t just the car, it was also the fact of them taking up valuable car park space as well.”

As they were already sharing meeting rooms and office spaces the concept of sharing was at the forefront of his mind. Looking around he realised that Basestation had a great central location with a potential customer base of around 50 businesses already in the building. And so Steven started GoTo Car Share from the same space. He got rid of the petrol cars and began building a small fleet of EVs, believing the environmental benefits and user accessibility were key.

“We wanted to make a public service where anyone can use it,” Steven says.

Of course, Kiwis love their cars. A byproduct of decades worth of woefully underfunded public transport. Steven too loves cars, just
not owning them.

“If you look at the service of car sharing it comes down to the concept of flexibility. It’s about usership, not ownership.”

With a current fleet of five EVs available 24/7 and plans coming along to expand to other locations, including Mount Maunganui, customers will never be caught short without access to a vehicle when they need one. The convenience and financial freedom of not running a car could even make ownership a thing of the past.

The concept is initially a bit different but Steven says change is in the air, as evidenced by the variety of people using the service. Including those you’d least expect.

“The person who took a car just before I talked to you, even he admits it would be very difficult to get out of his petrol car,” Steven says. “However, this week, he made a commitment and he hasn't used his car all week. He's used the bus service for the first time in his life, and electric scooters. And now he's trying the car sharing. So if that's an indication of what people are doing there's a sea change underway.”

“People are definitely embracing it. And they're definitely wanting to change,” he continues.

“People are wanting to get out of their cars and use other forms of transport. Where we fit into that puzzle is, if you need a car just for an hour, come and use one. You don't necessarily need to own one.”

Goto.nz

Michele Griffin 10/9/23 Michele Griffin 10/9/23

Live in the now

Lauren Mabbett ponders whether it’s a midlife crisis that drove her to getting a tattoo for the first time at 38, or is it her insatiable zest for life? Perhaps just a questionable obsession with Wayne’s World

According to Google, 40 through 60 are the years we are likely to suffer a midlife crisis, but I've never been one to follow the crowd, so I think I'm gonna have one at 38.

As I watch my fellow 38ers meet their partner, buy a house, get married or have kids, I go and book myself in for my first ever tattoo.

Tossing around ideas with a friend after three too many glasses of wine (the way only the best ideas are created, right?) I message my tattoo artist buddy and lock in an appointment for the following Friday.

“What did you want to get?” she asks.

Of course most people get something incredibly significant or heartfelt; a date of birth, a symbol that means a lot, the name of a family member...

“Wayne from Wayne's World,” I reply.

Oh great, is this a midlife crisis? Probably, although the fact I still drive around with my CD wallet on the floor of my car suggests maybe I never grew up in the first place.

Look, in my defence, I’ve loved this movie since its release in ‘92. I've dressed up as Wayne for many a dress-up party, I have the cups and the t-shirts, I’ve visited every possible filming location as well as detouring my two last American roadies to include Aurora, Illinois where it’s set, and Delaware – the butt of a joke during the movie. When it comes to getting something on my body that’s gonna be there forever, it was only right. If anything I should be happy I didn't cave during the tramp stamp era.

I think subconsciously the changes began earlier this year, when I thought back to how 20-year-old me would spend the weekend drumming in a rock band at bars, with dyed black hair, feeling so cool, and here I was spending the weekend pushing back my cuticles and having a slice at the garden centre café.

So far this year I’ve dyed my hair black again and bought an electric drum kit. Not sure I'm feeling cool enough yet though, hence the tattoo.

I've noticed myself increasingly referencing “the good old days” of the Strand in Tauranga.

Remember when you’d don your “jeans and a nice top” then head out to Krazy Jacks, Grumpy Mole, and Bahama Hut? You wanted to go to Beach Street but it was such a long walk all the way up Devonport Road so you ended up at Harringtons instead. Sigh.

It was a fun, carefree time where, instead of cutting out dairy and nightshades because your nearly 40-year-old tummy doesn't like them anymore, you ate that dirty 3am pie from Snackarama and bloody loved it. (Still can't figure out why we all have gut issues now.)

The amount of tasks we need to accomplish to feel like we aren't disgusting as we get older is ridiculous. Creams and serums, beauty appointments, tweezing and shaving areas that didn't previously have hair encroaching on them.

In our 20s we could bang on some cargo pants and an army singlet, wipe your face with some Dream Matte Mousse and leave the house looking gorgeous for the day. During my 30s, every year I’ve had to add another ingredient to my face to make it look somewhat acceptable. I’ve given laser companies hundreds of dollars to make me look like a hairless cat, and I’ve had more cameras inside me than the Love Island villa.

Growing old is a part of life, of course, but as cliché as it sounds, you're only as old as you feel. As I drive around cranking my Killing Heidi CD, I think to myself: Physically I’m 38, but mentally I’m 23 (despite increasingly discovering a new line on my face that I swear wasn’t there yesterday).

So get that tattoo, wear those jeans and a nice top, and party on.

Listen to Lauren weekdays 9am to 3pm on The Hits 95.0FM.

Michele Griffin 10/8/23 Michele Griffin 10/8/23

Nurture in nature

Karen Clarkson spoke to the Principal of Matahui School to learn why for the last 30 years the school has turned traditional education systems on its head and the critical role nature plays in creating positive learning outcomes

While politicians and education researchers are divided over the state of our education system in the lead up to this year's election, a special character primary school on the outskirts of Katikati, is providing a beacon of hope for parents whose children have struggled in traditional school environments.

Principal, Mary Woods, says that the mainstream education system is not suited to every child. Matahui School provides an alternative approach to education so that young people can achieve success with the increased pace and technology the modern world demands.

“Matahui School challenges traditional education methods and provides a unique sanctuary for children to learn. All children have a diverse range of strengths and learning styles. Unlike the mainstream system, we don’t believe one size fits all. Our smaller class sizes allows individual one-on-one time with the teacher and creates a quieter, calmer environment that is more conducive to learning,” she explains.

At Matahui, the school embraces a balance of the fundamentals of core learning wrapped in enquiry that encourages the child to flourish in a way that best suits them.

“Recent reports and findings from the ERO (Education Review Office) and Education Hub describe children having better outcomes when they develop their own learning goals. Enquiry-based education is at the centre of our ethos and the children actively influence their own pathways to learning daily.

“Recently the Year 1 and 2 students wanted to learn about space. Through discussion their teacher came to understand that they were more interested in learning about moon buggies and space transport, so she used this as the springboard for their enquiry,” says Mary.
While more and more schools reach for technology to deliver the curriculum, Matahui School nestled among towering pines and surrounding orchards, uses a progressive curriculum that values outdoor education and delivers core subjects across a variety of disciplines.

“Connection with and within nature has been proven around the world to be critical to supporting healthy development in children. All of our teachers will agree that the real magic happens beyond our classroom walls, where hands-on experiences and challenges empower the children to develop independence, confidence, learn technical skills, and manage risk,” says Mary.

Every week, rain or shine, students spend a full day immersed in nature, building makeshift shelters, exploring meandering streams, and overcoming challenges as part of the forest school programme. The Year 7 and 8 students attend four camps throughout the year, clocking up to 30 days a year in the great outdoors. Recently a class visited and worked on a local farm to better understand the milk production process from farm to fridge.

Ruth, mother of Polly, a former student of Matahui, says she appreciates the positive impact the school’s values and unique learning approach has provided her daughter.

“Polly’s college teachers have noted how engaged she is with her personal learning, the confidence she has to challenge herself and her perseverance when things are hard.”

Mary agrees that the environment and experiences Matahui School students are provided supports them to learn in the way that not only suits them best, but empowers them to develop key skills to handle the inevitable challenges they will meet in their future education, and life beyond the classroom.

Matahui.school.nz

Michele Griffin 10/3/23 Michele Griffin 10/3/23

Creature comforts

Animal expert and veterinarian David McDonnell of Tauranga Vets answers your im-paw-tant questions about pet health and wellbeing

Animal expert and veterinarian David McDonnell of Tauranga Vets answers your im-paw-tant questions about pet health and wellbeing.

Photo Salina Galvan

Got fleas? Should you shear your dog like a sheep in springtime? And what about wet pet food? Here’s vet David’s best advice for keeping your furry friends happy, healthy and well as the weather warms up.

Q: How often should I de-flea and worm my pet?

A: Fleas can be a problem for our pets all year round in the Bay of Plenty, as we have a relatively warm climate here and many of our pets live indoors as well, staying warm all the time. Because of this, we recommend keeping up with regular flea treatments all year round to ensure you don’t get a flea infestation in your house. Ninety-five percent of the flea population live off the animal; that is, in our environment which can include our house. Ensuring good flea control in our homes by using regular vacuuming and a flea bomb, for example, can also help prevent your pet becoming reinfected following flea treatment. There are many different flea products available these days. The most commonly used products are given orally, and some are still applied to the skin on the back of the pet’s neck. The length of time each product lasts can also vary from one to six months usually. Talk to your vet for advice on which product would be best for your pets.

Q: Should I shave my pet to keep them cool in summer?

A: In the heat of summer, it can be hard for some dogs to keep themselves cool. This is especially so for some bigger dogs with heavy coats, as well as brachycephalic breeds of dogs such as bulldogs. Unlike humans, dogs cannot sweat through their skin. They rely on panting and releasing heat through their paw pads and nose to regulate their body temperature. If they can’t cool down, they will quickly develop heatstroke. For pets with thick and long coats, shaving them can certainly help to keep them cooler in the hot summer months as well as prevent unwanted knots or mats in the fur. There is a small risk which is higher in some breeds of dog that the hair doesn’t grow back properly. Breeds at increased risk include those with long, plush coats, such as the Alaskan malamute, American Eskimo, Chow Chow, Keeshond, Pomeranian, Samoyed, and Siberian Husky, but it can occur in any breed. No one knows exactly why this occurs sometimes for some dogs.

Q: Why does my pet only want wet food?

A: Most pets should be able to eat a completely dry or mixed wet and dry diet. If you have noticed a change in your pet’s preference to only wanting wet food, there could be some underlying health reasons for that. The most common medical reason for this would potentially be pain in the mouth from dental disease. Pets will often keep eating even with teeth that have serious disease present. The best way to check for this is to get a dental and health check done by a vet. Good dental health is pivotal to good overall health and welfare for our pets. Dental disease can cause significant pain to animals that is very hard for owners to detect until it is really severe. Your vet should complete an oral exam during your pet’s annual health check as well.

Q: My neighbour's dog barks all day. Is this a sign of stress?

A: Barking is how dogs communicate. They can bark for many reasons including fear, territorial barking, anxiety and boredom. In these situations, it’s best to alert the owner, as they may be unaware of what their dog is doing while they’re not home. Once they’re aware, it’s something that would require a significant amount of work and training to help alleviate the dog’s underlying reason for barking. We often recommend contacting a qualified dog behaviourist or trainer to help with these kinds of situations. They are able to come to the dog’s home and help assess what it is that’s causing the dog to bark. They would then be able to work with the owner to implement some environmental adjustments or enrichment, alongside training the owner on how to train the dog to prevent the barking from occurring.

bopvets.co.nz

Michele Griffin 7/29/23 Michele Griffin 7/29/23

Consistent returns through uncertain times

In an era of economic volatility and market uncertainty, investment opportunities that provide consistent returns can be hard to come by.

In the ‘hood

Kids can have big emotions. Simple self-care for parents helps find and lend kids our calm.

Kids can have big emotions. Simple self-care for parents
helps find and lend kids our calm.

Words Holly Brooker, Parenting Place

Parenthood is an incredibly fulfilling, beautiful journey, but it can also be one of the most challenging experiences. During times of high stress, it’s important we care for ourselves and build our own reserves so we can manage the stressors we face, and be present to support our tamariki. It’s like the safety message we hear on planes: Put your own oxygen mask on first.

Fitting in self-care

Life as a parent is incredibly busy. But self-care doesn’t have to be the luxe pampering you see on Instagram. It can be the small things, little and often, to achieve balance, like refraining from starting that gripping Netflix series at 10pm. Getting a good balance of fruit and veg (and no, the “grape juice” that goes quite well with Netflix doesn’t count as fruit). Moving your body, even if a daily five-minute walk around the block is all you can manage. Or snatching two minutes of silence during times of high stress to process the triggers you might be feeling.

Creating space for ourselves is an important tool to help ensure we are able to keep calm during periods of stress, so we can provide our kids with the emotional stability and support that they need.

Our kids need self-care too, with a gentle balance of sleep, good food, movement, and play. Consistent routines, exceptions and boundaries increase our child's feelings of safety and security, especially during times of extra stress and uncertainty.

Expect the unexpected

If there is one given in parenting, it’s that our children will have big emotions and big behaviours – often when we least expect it (like when we’re running out the door, already late). Big emotions can make children feel out of control. Children generally express themselves through behaviour rather than words, and sometimes that behaviour can be pretty confronting and loud.

Hence the need to look after ourselves first, so we’re well-resourced to be a cushion for our kids when their big feelings erupt. This is when our kids really need us to help them find their calm – we can lend them some of ours, but only if we can prevent ourselves from having our own emotions triggered by their big feelings.

Pause, reflect, engage

“Pause, reflect, engage” is a simple strategy to help reduce the brain’s threat level, enabling our prefrontal cortex to do the work it was designed to do. It’s particularly helpful if you’re struggling with additional stressors as well.

“Pause” is about stopping and taking a slow, deep breath (or 10!) in a stressful situation. It really is just about breathing. Oxygen is a gift to the brain and nervous system, and a very quick and effective way to calm things down a bit.

When we “reflect”, we gather information about and from ourselves, as well as from our surroundings. We use “reflect” with empathy to notice our thoughts and feelings based on the situation we’re in.

We do this by asking the following questions:

Name the feeling you are experiencing. It might be, “I feel frustrated.” No judgement, just acknowledgement.
Now consider, what might my child be feeling? “They seem to be feeling sad.” Accept where they are at, without judgement. “Those are their feelings, and that's okay.”
Consider the why? “I’m wondering whether I’m feeling so frustrated because they are making me late to work by mucking around?” or “I’m wondering if he could feel sad because I’m getting snappy and grumpy?”

Now we “engage”. Once we have that information, we can use it to better understand ourselves, our kids and the situation, and we can plan of how to move forward together. A simple, sharing conversation could be enough.

“When you and I were arguing before, I noticed that things were getting out of hand. So I just needed to stop and take a breath. When I did, I realised that I was feeling really angry and frustrated. Then I thought, well, maybe you felt angry too, maybe even sad because we were arguing? I don’t like feeling that way and I’m sure you don’t either. I’m sorry that it happened. There must be some way we can work this out. Let’s give it a go.”

This simple process of understanding our triggers and emotions, as well as our kids, and sharing these through conversation can provide a healthy process of connection.

Our children’s behaviours can be so big and intense that it is difficult to see the emotions underneath. When this happens, we are easily drawn into their emotional turmoil. But if we approach them with an attitude of empathy, compassion and understanding, we show them that their relationship with us is more important than their challenging behaviour. It might be a work in progress, but it’s always progress when you're moving toward connection at the forefront.

parentingplace.nz

Michele Griffin 7/18/23 Michele Griffin 7/18/23

The little store making a big difference

Katoa is a place where local youth can learn career skills to help them thrive.

Words Catherine Sylvester

Photos Jahl Marshall

Stepping through the doors of Katoa in beautiful Mount Maunganui, you’re met with all the hallmarks of a humming café. Happy chat and laughter bubble up from the young staff behind the counter, where a delicious array of smoothies are on offer.

Look a little closer, and you’ll soon discover Katoa is a smoothie bar with a twist – and a greater purpose. Opened last November by The Get Group, it exists to provide a space in which young people are trained with the skills needed to work in customer service, and to also house the Group’s not-for-profit Little Heroes Project.

The Get Group was launched in 2015 by friends Angela Spice-Ridley and Noeline (Noels) Cook, who met while working in adult education. The organisation seeks to provide training in basic career skills to those for whom school is not a natural or easy fit.

“We started by going into schools to run workshops,” explains Angela. “Practical things like barista skills, horticulture, food safety, customer service and interview techniques.”

The pair’s experience working in adult education meant they were able to identify certain gaps that young people were encountering. They realised that filling those gaps would be their mission.

“Noels and I have a passion for young people and love their energy. They have so much to offer,” says Angela, smiling. “We hear a lot that young people don’t know how to work, but have they been taught to? We felt they were getting a bit of a raw deal and wanted to change that.”

The Get Group employs young people to work in all areas of the business. They teach workshops, run school holiday programmes, operate the Katoa Food Truck, and work in the café. They’re also encouraged to give back to the community and are given time off yearly to do so.

It was through one of these altruistic initiatives that the Little Heroes Project came to be. Encouraged to find ways that were meaningful to them and would benefit others, one young wahine chose to help teen mothers by creating and gifting care packages. From the beauty of those small beginnings, something even bigger was born.

A call to the community for donations for these packages resulted in an overwhelming response. The collection and distribution of goods on a larger scale was enough to warrant the Project registering as a charitable trust that now supports individuals and organisations throughout Aotearoa.

Angela explains the Katoa store allows The Get Group to train and employ young people, and to raise funds for the Little Heroes Project.

“We partner with young entrepreneurs across New Zealand, providing them with a space to showcase and sell their creations,” says Angela. “We also have a range of Katoa merchandise and upcycled clothing for sale, which profit the Little Heroes Project.”

Jorgia Neill first encountered The Get Group when she took their Gateway course while still in high school.

“We were learning interview skills, and afterwards Noels invited me to do some work experience with them,” the 21-year-old says. “I was able to try a bit of everything to see what I would enjoy the most and where I would thrive.”

Fast-forward four years, and Jorgia now manages the head office in Palmerston North.

“It was a shock to be asked to join as I didn’t have much confidence in my abilities,” she explains. “This has built my confidence and helped me grow. It’s also helped me to know my worth in the workforce.”

Noels is keen to point out the beautifully collaborative effort that has gone into ensuring Katoa thrives.

“The biggest thing Angela and I do for each other is to be calm when the other is freaking out,” she says, laughing. “I don’t think I would have survived without her. This venture wouldn’t have got to where it is without it involving the two of us.”

Both women’s husbands are fully committed to the vision, contributing their building and business skills to projects.

Noels sums it all up with a smile: “When all is said and done, it is our incredible team of young people that makes it worth getting up every day and keeping it all going.”

katoa.org.nz

Michele Griffin 7/11/23 Michele Griffin 7/11/23

Thriving together

Tauranga Business Chamber’s chief executive Matt Cowley says owners of local businesses big and small benefit from support, collaboration and networking opportunities.

Leading an organisation can be a lonely position. It’s easy to feel the weight of the entire business on your shoulders as you carry ultimate responsibility for the finances, marketing, human resources, administration and operations.

It can be a massive relief to meet people in similar roles; to share problems and help each other discover new solutions.

Our lives feel like they’re only getting busier, so it can be challenging to find time to connect with other business owners and leaders. However, times are extra tough for businesses right now – and that connection has never been more vital.

I encourage you, if you’re feeling the strain, to prioritise connection.

Tauranga Business Chamber connects with hundreds of business leaders across all industry sectors on any given month. As the region’s business hub and champion, it’s a great place to start.

We hold several events a month, covering a range of networking opportunities and leadership conversations with industry and political decision-makers. We also provide targeted forums like our Business Women’s Network and LINKT – Young People in Business.

We also help keep you up to date with the latest trends, legislation changes, and new business support offerings, as well as what’s happening across the Western Bay business community.

An incredibly effective way to build rapport with people quickly is by offering help without strings attached, sharing experiences, and welcoming them into your network.

You can do this by meeting like-minded people at our events, or by sharing your expertise through our trusted communication channels.

We have recently made membership more affordable and accessible to business owners and leaders, allowing you to choose the level you want to engage with us. Our entry-level membership is less than $270 per year and comes with a host of benefits – perfect for small and new businesses.

As a larger business, membership showcases your corporate citizenship and helps the next generation of businesses. You’re also supporting the Chamber to be a strong, independent voice of business as we advocate for better outcomes for local businesses.

It’s time to come together, support one another, and ensure the Western Bay’s dynamic business ecosystem continues to thrive through the economic turbulence heading our way.

Tauranga.org.nz

Michele Griffin 7/4/23 Michele Griffin 7/4/23

Through the lens of giving

Colour, candour and compassion are three hallmarks of the stunning images featured in Acorn Foundation’s recent 20th birthday commemorative photographic exhibition, presented in partnership with UNO.

Photos Alan Gibson

Shifting the focus to those deserving of support has always been at the forefront of Acorn Foundation’s mahi. Their recent 20th birthday celebration was true to form, showcasing the extraordinary generosity of Acorn’s donors and the lasting impact of their gifts on the local community. In partnership with UNO and our award-winning photographer, Alan Gibson, a stunning photographic exhibition was unveiled in the heart of Tauranga on April 4.

The exhibition, Enduring Connections, featured 18 of the more than 290 charitable groups in the Western Bay of Plenty who have received funding from Acorn. Spanning organisations focussed on the arts, environment, youth, food insecurity, homelessness, health, diversity and more, these images acknowledge in a visually impactful way the enduring difference Acorn donors seek to make, and the enduring support Acorn is then able to extend to the region.

The Acorn Foundation was established back in 2003 by their inaugural chair, Bill Holland, with the support of a group of committed trustees. Acorn is now one of 17 community foundations in New Zealand that use a smarter giving model that involves pooling and collectively investing donors’ funds. The capital in the fund remains intact, while a portion of the income is distributed annually to the local community. Using this method means that Acorn’s donors can support causes close to their hearts, forever.

The Edna Brown Fund was Acorn’s first donation. Upon Edna’s death in 2001, she left $67,000 for the benefit of the community. When Acorn was founded two years later, her trustees thought that the foundation would be the perfect place for Edna’s gift. After 20 years, Acorn has given away more than $89,000 from Edna’s fund to support local charitable organisations. Her fund value is now $91,000, and is a perfect example of the community foundation model. The Acorn team know that Edna would be absolutely thrilled.

In 2023, over 430 donor funds – and more than 600 donors overall – support the community in all sorts of ways. Thanks to these generous donors, Acorn has now reached $60 million in funds under management that are invested with Craigs Investment Partners. More than $13 million overall has been distributed to nearly 300 worthy causes in the Western Bay of Plenty and other areas important to Acorn’s donors.

The Acorn team has a tremendous belief in the power of community foundations and the enduring difference that Acorn can make in this region. Understanding that overseas community foundations are over 100 years old, they know that Acorn’s story is just beginning.

acornfoundation.org.nz

**SURFING UP SUCCESS**

“The new day dawning is really a metaphor for the work done by the amazing crew at Live for More. It’s a new beginning, or a fresh start from their troubled pasts, through the surf therapy programmes they run. I think that this image captures the ray of hope that their work brings to so many, one wave at a time.”
~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Live for More empowers vulnerable young men who are caught up in lifestyles that include alcohol, drugs and crime to find freedom from their troubled pasts and be inspired to live positive and fulfilling lives. Acorn Foundation funding supports Live for More to provide counselling and mentoring for these rangatahi, giving them a renewed understanding of their identity, purpose and potential.

COLOUR ME HAPPY

“Tasked with creating a mural covering the drab wall of a Te Puke commercial building, artist Kalib Wallace was struggling with both deadlines and bad weather. Luckily, rangatahi from Ngā Kākano Foundation were there to help him create something beautiful while learning invaluable skills from an accomplished artist.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Ngā Kākano Foundation provides a wide range of free and accessible health and social services to families living in Te Puke. Acorn has a strong focus on youth development through field of interest funds, which supported young people to create this colourful mural as a creative outlet.

STREAMS OF CHANGE

“When a photographer asks you to stand in the middle of a fast-flowing stream, some people might think twice. Karen Smillie jumped - or, rather, fell! - straight in, keen to promote the work Project Parore do to protect the water quality in Bay of Plenty catchment. Fellow passionate environmentalist Ben Haarmann joined her on the bank.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Project Parore focuses on improved freshwater quality through restored native habitats. Volunteers work with local landowners to practice ecological restoration for improved soil health, stream health and biodiversity in the waterways that feed into Northern Tauranga Harbour.

HISTORY COMES ALIVE

“Hidden away among the majestic trees that are its namesake, The Elms | Te Papa has been a place for locals to gather and learn for generations. Through the lens, I can see paintings, photographs, and beautifully crafted objects. The smell of ancient woods used to make them combine with the sights to transport visitors back in time.”
~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
The Elms | Te Papa Tauranga is a very important heritage and educational site as a place of early contact between Māori and Pākehā. Acorn’s unrestricted fund has provided support for expenses, and in addition, Trustees have set up a Community Group Fund with Acorn to ensure that this site remains open for future generations.

EMBRACING COMMUNITY SPIRIT

“The Holi Festival has its roots in Hindu traditions and is an opportunity for the local Indian community to bring a sense of fun and the colours of their culture to Tauranga. I wanted to capture the emotions expressed as people unleash their inner child, tossing coloured powder that all bear different meanings.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Acorn’s VitalSigns® research highlights the importance of residents feeling a sense of belonging and engagement in their town and of migrants feeling welcomed by locals. This desire to enhance community connectedness is why Acorn is a joint funder of the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund.

JOY OF GIVING

“The absolute thrill that Alan Goodyear gets from supporting the development of tamariki in Katikati is undeniable. At the primary school during a kapa haka practice, the kids loved having Alan watch, as you can see in the intense pukana of young Alex Hollows.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Alan Goodyear set up a fund with Acorn in 2017 in memory of his son Paul, a brilliant maths and science student who passed away far too early after a battle with mental illness. Alan attended Katikati Primary School and is delighted that his fund can provide enrichment programmes to the students in maths, reading, science and kapa haka.

MUSIC FOR THE SOUL

*“Standing in the darkened theatre as the chords of Pachelbel’s* Canon ring out through the smoky haze has to be one of the most beautiful moments in this project. The three members of the Opus Orchestra made their way through an extra-long version of the musical masterpiece while I crafted my image. It was a stunning experience!” - ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Opus Orchestra was founded in 1991 to positively impact the cultural life in the BOP/Waikato regions. The orchestra provides performance opportunities for professional musicians with local audiences. The trustees of Opus Orchestra recently opened a Community Group Fund with the Acorn Foundation to help fund the Opus Pathways programme to support the development of musicians at all stages of their careers.

ENGAGING AT SPEED

“Youth Encounter Ministries Trust uses the love of action to engage young people at their Paengaroa property. The thrill of riding dirt bikes through the mud together is as important as the camaraderie and mentorship the team provide for our youth who feel lost.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Youth Encounter Ministries Trust unleashes potential in young people by encouraging a sense of belonging and belief in their value, giving them hope they can become who they are meant to be. Acorn funding supports operational expenses for youth development interventions that empower vulnerable young people “to live a life wide open”.

IMAGINATION AT PLAY

“People say you should never work with children or animals. However, I had so much fun capturing this image of enthusiastic participants at STEM Wana Trust, which is found at Basestation on Durham Street. These budding scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians are learning that the world is there for the making.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Many Acorn donors like to support organisations which promote learning opportunities for children from all backgrounds. STEM Wana Trust’s mission is to engage and inspire a new generation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) activities and opportunities.

BIRD’S EYE VIEW

“The guardians of our beaches do the most extraordinary work, so I wanted to capture this image using drone technology to achieve a perspective most people don’t get to see. While standing on the beach, I took this photo of the Waihi Beach lifeguard crew going through a practice rescue beyond the breakers so that they are ready to help when it matters most.”
~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
The volunteers at Waihi Beach Lifeguard Services patrol the 10km long peninsula and provide search and rescue services around the 75km coastline. Acorn is proud to support this important mahi, as well as Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service, Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving
Club, Papamoa Surf Life Saving Club, and Pukehina Surf Rescue.

RESCUING THE VULNERABLE

“The love and dedication of the team at the ARRC Wildlife Trust was immediately evident to me in the way they handled the morepork chick we photographed. A pair of steady but delicate hands cradled the tiny bird while vet Liza Schneider checked it over and gave the volunteers a glowing report of the bird’s improvement.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
The team at Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre (ARRC) Trust are passionate about caring for wildlife which has been injured or orphaned in the Bay of Plenty. ARRC has a Community Group Fund with Acorn and also receives tagged funding each year from the J Abbot Fund.

KO TĀKU TOI TĀKU OHOOHO! MY ORIGIN IS MY AWAKENING!

“Art was all around us at Te Tuhi Mareikura’s hub in Mount Maunganui. Paintings and drawings hung on the walls, while around the table, discussions were underway about the carving of a taiaha. It is a place where young people can let the art get under their skin, and their creativity knows no bounds.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Te Tuhi Mareikura Charitable Trust (TMT) is passionately dedicated to the vision of building a strong Māori collective identity for those from the Tauranga Moana region through an expression of Māori culture and arts. Acorn is a new funder supporting their youth programme, Toi Ohooho.

PROTECTING OUR FOREST

“The beautiful North Island brown kiwi calls Ōtanewainuku Forest home. Ross Edwards checked one of the many pest traps in the forest and had caught a ferret. Ross, and dozens of other volunteers like him, happily give up their time to check and bait traps, clear tracks and generally cherish our environment. I see an immense pride and passion in Ross’s face for the work they do for our beloved kiwi and the native forest.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Volunteers at Ōtanewainuku Kiwi Trust work with DOC to protect kiwi, kōkako, and the conservation of the forest through pest control, kiwi and kōkako translocation, kiwi chick rearing, education and fundraising. The trust has established a Community Group Fund with Acorn and also receives tagged funding from the J Abbot and M&L Bellerby funds.

BOXING UP COMPASSION

“Tauranga Community Foodbank warehouse manager and buyer, Jordy Gastmeier, is pictured among the jungle of boxes and supplies which illustrate the level of need in our community. Signs like ‘Strictly for clients living in cars’ say it all. With this photo, I wanted to capture the enormity of their vital work.”
~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Demand is so high that, in the last year, Tauranga Community Foodbank gave out 6,900 food parcels, helping over 18,500 people. In 2022, Acorn support from trusts, corporates, and their unrestricted fund contributed to food distributed by the Foodbank which was used to prepare nearly 200,000 meals.

COLOURS OF THE RAINBOW

“Here I strove to capture the pride and aspirations of the Gender Dynamix team in their villa at Historic Village. The staff have created a space here where people can be at peace and free from judgement. The wall is covered in pieces of art that clients have created to reveal their stories, feelings and hopes.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
As a long-time local donation manager for The Tindall Foundation, Acorn funds local organisations on their behalf that promote an inclusive, diverse and welcoming community. Gender Dynamix works to meet the mental health needs of the BOP's transgender and non-binary community.

HEALING WATERS

“Roger Clark is well aware that sailing has long been seen as a rich man’s sport, but he is determined to change that impression. Showing kids who’ve never sailed before the pleasure of spending time on the water has become a mission.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Thanks to the Sail for Life Community Group Fund set up at Acorn, the BOP Sailing Academy Trust has been able to share the love of sailing with locals, irrespective of means or ability. Sailing is a demanding sport that brings out fantastic qualities in young people, such as tenacity, self-reliance and discipline. The challenge and sense of achievement on offer are so empowering.

CARE AND COMPASSION

“To sit with Brian and Shirley and hear the stories about the help they have received at home from staff at Waipuna Hospice was uplifting. This is a happy image; perhaps it will help dispel some of the sad connotations people associate with the term ‘hospice’.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
The work of Waipuna Hospice is celebrated by Acorn’s donors, as it is their most-named charity in wills. Waipuna receives more than $115,000 from Acorn each year, coming from 11 estates and living givers. In the future, dozens of Acorn funds will provide hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to provide care both for patients and families.

IMPROVING A HOME

“Mike has a plastic container in the corner of his home that holds three months’ worth of water from a leak in his roof. It’s a big container. Mike was delighted to have the friendly team from Sustainability Options arrive at this Bethlehem home to discuss plans to fix leaks and install insulation. Although the house is small, the improvements that the organisation is going to make will transform it into a true home for a deserving gentleman.” ~ ALAN GIBSON - PHOTOGRAPHER
Sustainability Options is a social business which provides free home assessments to ensure that local families are living in safe, warm and dry
homes. The Acorn Foundation provides funding that assists Sustainability Options to perform home repairs, provide heaters, blankets and curtains, and improve healthy housing literacy across the Bay of Plenty.

A PLACE TO REMEMBER

Acorn’s staff is small but mighty. Here, five of our seven team members are pictured at the Acorn Foundation Oak Grove in Cambridge Park, where trees are planted in memory of Acorn donors who have passed away. We are so lucky that the foundation has always been supported by fantastic volunteers. Nine Trustees provide governance and oversight and sit on one of the four foundation committees: Distributions; Investment Advisory; Scholarship; and Audit, Risk and Policies. Additional community members help make distribution decisions and review scholarship applications, while investment professionals share their expertise to oversee the work done by our long-time fund manager, Craigs Investment Partners.

Meet the photographer ALAN GIBSON

Alan’s love of photography came from his father who shocked his own father when he announced he was going to be a photographer instead of running the family farm. Eventually, with a young family in tow, he did return to the farm and continued to document the unique culture that surrounds us in this country. “He taught me to see the beauty in the backlit dust cloud kicked up by a mob of sheep being mustered or the stunning contrast of muted light coming through a woolshed door.” Alan worked as a photojournalist for The New Zealand Herald for over 20 years, as well as for agencies in the UK, servicing all the big papers of Fleet Street. He now uses those story-telling skills for a wide range of commercial clients.

Funding from the Acorn Foundation simply wouldn’t exist without the generosity of our supporters. Each of the deceased donors in this collage had their own hopes and desires for the region, with some naming specific charities and others selecting a field of interest for their Acorn fund. Another group of donors entrust their annual distributions to the dedicated volunteers on the Acorn Distributions Committee who evaluate applications for the unrestricted funds. Support for the community is not just for the wealthy; most Acorn donors are very modest people who are passionate about this region. However, our supporters all share the same desire to give back to this community and a strong belief in the long-term power of Acorn’s smarter giving model.

Michele Griffin 5/18/23 Michele Griffin 5/18/23

Tech testing corner

Karl Puschmann tries out the latest and greatest gadgets.

Karl Puschmann tries out the latest
and greatest gadgets.

PSVR 2

As the name suggests, this is PlayStation’s second go at VR, and it's vastly improved. While the design looks similar, it's been totally redesigned. I found the new headset lighter, more comfortable to wear and easier to take on and off. The screens inside are also dramatically better which, when combined with the sheer grunt of the PS5, make for a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

The PSVR 2 is cutting-edge tech and does come with a cutting-edge price, costing more than the required PS5 console itself. It’s certainly not going to be an impulse buy.

But no other gaming experiences come anywhere close to offering the undeniable thrills, realism and sense of complete immersion offered by virtual reality, and the PSVR 2 is one of the easiest user-friendly and powerful ways of joining the VR gaming revolution.

RRP$999.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

The new flagship phone from Samsung has constantly impressed. It's said the best camera is the one you have with you, and if you have the S23 Ultra, you’ll have the best phone camera currently available with you at all times. Its elegant design features an ultra-wide, two telephoto lenses and a 200-megapixel main camera.

We also liked the customisable always-on display and the stylus tucked away for note-taking or doodling on its absolutely gorgeous screen.

The phone’s also incredibly fast and responsive and easily handled everything I’ve thrown at it. Battery life was also impressive getting me through the day.

Everything about the S23 Ultra feels premium and it certainly earns its Ultra branding.

RRP$2299.

Microsoft Surface 5 Laptop

Windows laptops aren’t renowned for their good looks. With its Surface range, Microsoft has sought to change that reputation by showing what Windows-powered computers and devices can look like. Their new Surface 5 is an exceptionally good-looking laptop. For the past month, UNO’s been testing the flagship 16-inch model. The 14-inch comes in a range of stylish colours, but our review unit was a stealthy black augmented with a mirrored Windows logo on the front. Very classy. Thanks to Windows Hello, its Face ID feature, whenever you open the laptop up it’s ready to go. It sounds trivial but is one of my favourite features. The laptop’s vivid and bright screen also doubles as a touch screen, which sounds gimmicky, but was increasingly useful to quickly close a window or sign documents. Battery life’s also very good. Using it as my daily work computer I could get through a full eight hours without plugging in. The only real struggle I encountered was with more demanding gaming. But for casual or productivity users the Surface Laptop 5 is a solid, stylish choice. It’s quiet, houses one of the nicest keyboards going and has been a joy to use.

Starting from $2449 for the 15 inch.

Moochies Connect Smartwatch 4G

No one wants to be a helicopter parent but the cold hard facts are that the world is a more dangerous place than it was in the good old days when we grew up. The Moochies Connect Smartwatch is designed so kids can play and explore their world with freedom but you can still keep tabs on where they are at all times. If the worst does happen, like falling off their bike and needing your help, there's an SOS button they can press. The monthly plans come with 1GB of data and unlimited call minutes so they can call you directly from the watch if they need to. It's water resistant and tough enough to stand even the most rigorous play sessions making their watch one thing you won't need to worry about.

RRP$189.99, monthly plans from $15.95 a month.

eufy RoboVac 35C

Having two kids and a fluffy kitten running around the house meant vacuuming was a daily chore. No longer. Unlike more expensive models, the 35C can’t map your house or do anything fancier than schedule a daily start time. Instead, it randomly bumps its way around the house sucking up everything in his path. I was initially sceptical of how good a job this cost-effective model would do. But it’s been revolutionary. I’m overjoyed to report I haven’t used my handheld vacuum cleaner in weeks.

RRP$399.

Ōura Smart Ring

If you're wanting to get in on the health tracking benefits of smartwatches but already have a snazzy traditional watch you don't want to part with then this nifty device could be just the ticket. The Ōura Smart Ring provides all the same health data and habit analysis that a smartwatch would, all shrunk down into a discrete and stylish ring. This Finnish company says for health tracking your pulse is actually stronger on your finger than your wrist making their data as accurate as possible. With sleep tracker, body temp gauge, readiness scores, movement, steps and heart rate tracking, amongst many others, this little ring does it all.

RRP$499.

Norton AntiTrack

They may not be glamorous, but online privacy and data protection are important. Norton’s new AntiTrack subscription allows you to simply go back to not thinking about these things. It blocks all online trackers, personal data collectors and fingerprinting spyware from gathering any personal info as you surf the web.

Michele Griffin 5/3/23 Michele Griffin 5/3/23

From the heart

With “giving” as their ethos, these three organisations bring joy to everyone they work with, from customers to colleagues.

With “giving” as their ethos, these three organisations bring joy
to everyone they work with, from customers to colleagues.

Words Karl Puschmann

We all know the old saying that it’s better to give than receive. But it’s not just a theory, it’s actually been scientifically proven. Giving activates the pleasure part of your brain and releases chemicals that make you feel better. It’s also been proven that being given something makes a person more likely to become a giver themselves. It’s a powerful circle of good vibes.

It’s also an idea these three local companies have taken to heart. They were all started – and operate – with that idea front and centre. Whether that’s by inspiring you to gift a future memory, donate to charity, directly support a community, or even just treat yourself to something nice, they all make a difference in people’s lives through the philosophy of giving.

Life-changing chocolate

Glenn Yeatman is the managing director of Solomon’s Gold, a local chocolate brand that supports a whole community.

As far as helping others go, eating chocolate has to be one of the easiest – and most delicious – ways of doing so. But that’s what choosing a block of Solomon’s Gold over other chocolate does.

Since 2006 the local chocolatiers have had a factory in Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands. Today, they support over 60 cacao bean growers and their families.

“We do have a presence there. We've been there a long time,” Glenn Yeatman says. “We don't just put the factory at the wharf, load the cacao and ship it out. We get involved with the people in the plantations, we’ve built roads, heaps of stuff.”

Their focus on community is a point of pride for the artisan chocolate makers and makes a real difference in the quality of their bars, which they make with only organic ingredients.

“We could actually take you to the Solomon Islands and show you where the bean was grown,” he says. “That’s the difference between us and others. We know what the trees look like, we know the topography, everything. And that's the difference. It's not just a commodity, it's a story.”

This, he says, allows them to know the exact origin of their beans which allows them to get specific types from specific areas for their various types. As well as bean quality, Glenn says there’s also another upside.

“If you know what the origin has been, you know that you've treated the people well, and paid a good price.”

solomonsgold.co.nz

Giving memories

James Fitzgerald is one of the founders of Chuffed, a business that allows people to gift experiences.

James Fitzgerald describes the founding of Chuffed as “an act of desperation” born out of the COVID-19 lockdowns.

“When you have your back against the wall, you think differently to how you normally would when you're sitting in a comfortable, ‘everything's cruising along nicely’ position,” he says. “It seemed like a good idea, so we gave it a crack to see if it worked.”

The idea was great. Chuffed allows people to gift experiences rather than material objects. The company caters for personal occasions like birthdays, Christmas and weddings as well as businesses wanting to gift their staff or clients something more meaningful than the standard bottle of wine.

“Handing something over and receiving a box is actually a really important part of gift-giving as part of the showing of love or appreciation. The handing over is the gift-giving moment. There's so much value tied up,” he explains. “We have created physical gifts. People receive a box, open it up and it reveals that they've been given an experience. We tried to stick with what traditionally is the awesome thing about giving gifts, but make it so the gift is actually a real-life experience.”

Receivers have a range of experience options to choose from. Everything from adventurous escapes, relaxing getaways, thrill-seeking activities or wining and dining. Each package offers over 80 local experiences to select from.

This is a big part of Chuffed that James is, well, chuffed about. Connecting their local partners with people they otherwise may not have reached.

“A lot of them are small family businesses. What we've been able to do through gift giving, is connect people that might have otherwise received a bread board or a bottle of champagne with the small Kiwi businesses around the country,” he explains. “Suddenly, these small family businesses and in Raglan, Tauranga, Taupō or wherever have Aucklanders turning up on the doors to do their experience. Chuffed’s had a real meaningful effect on their businesses and their families.”

“We get a real thrill when the invoices come in from the partners and the whole cycle of the gift has happened,” he smiles.

It sounds like Chuffed may be the only company out there that actually enjoys paying out money.

“Yeah,” he laughs. “It is a good feeling because you know it’s been working. It’s great!”

chuffedgifts.co.nz

Paying it forward

Rohan McClosky is a founder of GoGenerosity, a service that helps people help businesses help the less fortunate.

The concept of “pay it forward” took off in the year 2000 with the release of Helen Hunt’s box-office smash romantic drama of the same name. The idea is that instead of returning a favour, you do something nice first: Ergo, paying it forward.

This is also the basic concept behind GoGenerosity. It allows people to “pay forward” a small amount on top of their bill. This then pays for the business to do good in its community. Everything from supplying meals right through to haircuts and charity donations. It’s an easy way for people to make a difference and support both their favourite businesses and those less fortunate than themselves.

During the Level 3 lockdown, Rohan’s restaurants were struggling and he saw that his community here in Tauranga was as well. He wanted to do something.

“I partnered with my customers to initiate a pay-it-forward model, which meant that they simply made a donation and we guaranteed that we turned 100 percent of that donation into food from our local restaurants,” he explains. “Then we partnered with a charity who would come and collect the food and feed people in the community who were in need.”

His customers loved the idea and he saw there was an opportunity to expand from his own restaurants and into the wider business community.

"Kiwis are a generous bunch of people and I think GoGenerosity has proven that's true."

“It was such a great way in terms of the consumer, having the transparency of where their money was going. It was a really big, important thing for us that the money was going into the business, and
the business was then creating its product from that money. It wasn't being sent off somewhere where we didn't know what the outcome was.”

This is the biggest point of difference for GoGenerosity. Just this year they’ve already raised over $250,000 and positively impacted the lives of over 25,000 here in the Bay. And with over 65 businesses on board, everything from cafés, restaurants to utilities and petrol stations, it’s easy to pay it forward whenever you see the little green GG sticker.

“Kiwis are a generous bunch of people and I think GoGenerosity has proven that's true,” he smiles. “People want to be involved, especially when they can see where their impacts are being had.”

Gogenerosity.com

Michele Griffin 4/17/23 Michele Griffin 4/17/23

One smile at a time

Providing necessary dental care to remote and underserved communities is what drives these seagoing volunteers.

Words Catherine Sylvester

The year 2020 was meant to be the year for YWAM Ships Aotearoa (YSA). Having been gifted a container ship in 2019 by Stoney Creek Shipping, the local team had spent the previous months fitting it out with everything needed to take dental and basic health care across the Pacific Ocean to the peoples of the Solomon Islands. Then March 2020 came along, and we know how this story plays out.

But the spirit of determination runs deep within the greater YWAM organisation. Founded 63 years ago in the US, with the goal of equipping young people to volunteer worldwide, Youth With a Mission (pronounced why-wham) has had a base in Tauranga since 2005. Medical “Mercy Ships” were introduced internationally in the late 1970s to enable healthcare to be sent to some of the harder-to-reach nations of the world.

Tauranga-based managing director of YSA Marty Emmett was determined not to let the pandemic entirely derail the work his team had already planned. “The gift of lockdown was that it gave us time to reanalyse who we are and what our purpose is,” he explains. “It started this amazing journey of looking at how we could still utilise this ship and its facilities if we weren’t able to travel internationally.”

The decision was made at the beginning of 2021 to take the container that housed the dental clinic off the ship, and reach into the Bay of Plenty, offering free work for the most serious of oral health cases in the community.

Retired local dentist Sue Cole came on board to lead the team. “What drives me is seeing transformations in people – physical and emotional,” Sue says. “We offer a hand up, rather than a handout.”

Within the first 18 months of operating the Trinity Koha Dental Clinic, Sue and the volunteer dentists cared for 1,900 patients, and performed over $1 million worth of free dental services.

Equally important as the practical services offeredis the holistic care for clients. Marty explains that for many of those attending clinics, a history of dental trauma is carried with them. A dedicated “Call and Care” team ensures time is spent connecting with clients over the phone, discussing concerns and assuaging fears. “Sometimes, to get a patient to the stage of getting into the chair, the team will spend literally hours speaking with them on the phone first,” Sue says. “On the day, a group of our people will lovingly walk them in, supporting them every step of the way.”

The level of need within New Zealand surprised Marty, much of it surpassing what he has since seen in subsequent outreaches to isolated islands in the Pacific. “Within three days of starting a clinic here, we had hundreds of people on a waiting list,” he says. “Once we became aware of the scale of need, we knew we had to continue this work.”

"What drives me is seeing transformations in people – physical and emotional.
We offer a hand up, rather than a handout."

Sue Cole

July 2022 saw the ship finally able to travel internationally, with four months spent stationed in Fiji. There, hundreds of locals received free health screenings and dental treatment. Marty tells the story of one woman with high blood pressure who was advised to change her diet, get some exercise and to cut back on a few indulgences. Two weeks later she returned, requesting her blood pressure be retested as she had implemented these changes. Incredibly, it had gone from dangerously high to normal.

Partnering with local agencies if of great importance to YSA. “The key for us is to facilitate training and empower local workers – not just come in and do the services,” explains Marty. “Our main focus is around monitoring health and diet – small things that make a big difference.” The whakatoukī that best sums up their approach is “Nā tō rourou, nā taku rourou ka ora ai te iwi – With your food basket and my food basket, together the people will flourish and thrive.”

Everyone involved with YSA is a volunteer. The greater operational costs are covered by financial assistance from companies such as Trinity Lands, Bay Trust, TECT, Good Neighbour and Bid Foods, while private sponsorship is employed by individuals for their personal living costs. For Sue, Marty and team, it is more than worth it.

Sue recalls one of many cases that make what they do so worthwhile. “Recently a young woman was frustrated she couldn’t find a job, despite being skilled. She was missing her front tooth and lacked confidence from that,” she explains. “Our dentists restored the tooth, and the woman was over the moon. The shame she’d felt had gone.”

Moving forward, Marty says that by operating more dental clinics in the Bay, the Waikato, and in the Pacific, they want to eradicate high dental needs in these areas and help as many people as they can. “We’re not afraid to dream big!”

Ywamshipsaotearoa.org.nz

Michele Griffin 4/13/23 Michele Griffin 4/13/23

Pause, Breathe, Smile

This groundbreaking programme is making a real difference to our children’s emotional wellbeing, both in school and at home.

Words Catherine Sylvester

It goes without saying that life can be both challenging and stretching at the best of times. Throw into the mix a global pandemic, its repercussions, and the odd cyclone, and nerves can get more than a little frayed. As adults, many of us have needed to dig deep and prioritise mental health over the past few years, drawing on all the tools at our disposal. Our tamariki (children) have also had to weather these proverbial – and at times, literal – storms right alongside us. Factor in the unique aspects of growing up in this digital age that seems so different to many of our childhoods, and the potential for anxious thoughts and behavioural concerns increases. Now, thanks to charity Pause, Breathe, Smile (PBS) children don’t have to navigate these feelings alone.

Launched in its current form in 2017 by Grant and Natasha Rix with support from the Mental Health Foundation, PBS brings mindfulness-based wellbeing programmes into schools, to support, nurture and empower children to live their best lives.

By engaging and equipping teachers with the ability to share a series of eight lessons incorporating skills such as mindful breathing, mindful movements and kindness practices with their classes, the programme aims to give tamariki the tools they can use to feel good and function well the majority of the time.

“Feeling good is about emotional wellbeing, or an ability to manage emotion,” explains Grant. “Functioning well is speaking to psychological wellbeing. Integrating certain positive attributes, and how children can relate to others, while having control over their own emotions is super important.” Grant acknowledges that to feel this way all the time is unrealistic, but wholeheartedly believes “it’s possible to live in a way where we experience positive mental health most of the time.”

The charity is seeing results that reinforce this vision. Darren Scott, deputy principal, and Year 5 whānau leader, Yvette Brown, from Tahatai Coast School, Pāpāmoa have noticed marked improvements since the programme’s implementation in 2021.

“Children are coming back from playtime more ‘present’,” Yvette says. “They’ve learned that it’s normal to have worries, but now they know how
to identify their concerns and have strategies they can use to deal with them.”

It’s not just within the classroom environment that positive results are being seen. “We’ve received a lot of feedback that what the children are learning in school is being brought into the home,” explains Darren. “These are skills for life!”

Pause, Breathe, Smile has now reached over 100,000 tamariki in 323 schools, thanks to funding from Southern Cross, who partnered with the charity in 2020. A survey undertaken by more than a thousand teachers enrolled in the programme produced many encouraging results. Positive classroom behaviour had increased while a decline in negative behaviour was observed. Twelve months on from the introduction of PBS, general student wellbeing was up 16.6%, and the number of students flourishing increased by 8.1%. In general, greater perseverance, less anxiety, and less worries were reported.

“For me, the research and evaluation has been hugely important,” says Grant. “I only want to be doing something that works and achieves the benefits we’re after.”

With PBS now being fully funded, expansion is on the cards. “Follow-up lessons for schools, and unique ways of working with new entrants are on the wish list,” Grant excitedly explains. “An app is also in the works.”

Committed to positively impacting tamariki across New Zealand, PBS has piloted a programme within full immersion kura (schools), with all resources available in te reo Māori. “We’ve worked with Māori teachers in these schools and had a Māori educator facilitating so that we can be certain that the work we’re doing is properly contextualised with a Te Ao Māori worldview,” Grant says. “It’s an ongoing process, but we’re at a place now where we’re able to train kaiako (teachers).”

Backed by solid funding, extensive research and enthusiastic educators,
the future is looking bright for PBS and the children it reaches. Take it from someone already positively impacted by the initiative, Tahatai Coast pupil, Poppy (8): “I feel way calmer, and it’s really good to just be able to slow down my thoughts and think about things for a while now.”

pausebreathesmile.nz

Michele Griffin 4/13/23 Michele Griffin 4/13/23

In season

Ginny Clark from Decor Gardenworld shows us how to grow our own groceries.

With the price of fresh produce increasing daily and shortages at the supermarkets, there has never been a better time to start growing your own groceries. Whether you have a large property or small rental, you can plan, plant and successfully harvest your own homegrown fruit and vegetables year round.

The first thing to consider is what you like to eat. We all have our favourites. Here in the Bay we are blessed with great growing conditions. Citrus trees like lemons, limes, mandarins and oranges are a must, and if you plan well, you can be picking some form of citrus at all times of the year. Other favourites are feijoas. These are a hardy fruit and can act as both a fruit producer and a handy shelter hedge or pot plant.

Use your existing fencelines to espalier fruit along them. That way you don't need to look at an ugly fence. If you don't have much room for your fruit, do not despair. A lot of varieties are grafted onto semi-dwarf or dwarf rootstocks, resulting in a tree that is much reduced in size. Pruning your fruit trees from a young age is a must. Many are also happy in pots or containers, which will also restrict the size of the plant.

While most of us love the idea of growing fruit, remember we can't do this without bees, insects and birds. So make sure you plant bee-attracting and companion plants like lavender and rosemary close by. Pears and plums will sometimes need to be planted with a second tree of a different variety, which acts as the pollinator.

Consider harvest times, too. There is no point growing a plum that ripens in January if you know you always go away that month. And remember to always choose quality and tried-and-true varieties.

**TIPS FOR GROWING YOUR OWN ORCHARD**

Buy only quality plants.
Give them a good start with part sunlight, part shelter, and plant with planting mix and a base dressing such as Ican Slow Food.
Plant at least two fruit trees of the same type to help cross-pollination.
Mulch and feed with compost, blood and bone and fruit food.
Water regularly and thin excess fruit out through the growing season.
Protect the crop from birds.
Prune correctly from day one.
Check out our website for expert advice and videos on pruning or come to our pruning session on July 24 at Decor Gardenworld.
Buy only quality plants.
Give them a good start with part sunlight, part shelter, and plant with planting mix and a base dressing such as Ican Slow Food.
Plant at least two fruit trees of the same type to help cross-pollination.
Mulch and feed with compost, blood and bone and fruit food.
Water regularly and thin excess fruit out through the growing season.
Protect the crop from birds.
Prune correctly from day one. Check out our website or expert advice and videos on pruning or come to our pruning session on July 24 at Decor Gardenworld.

Decor Gardenworld in Bethlehem has been providing BOP gardeners with top-quality fruiting, flowering and fabulous plants for over 55 years. It is family owned and operated and is committed to providing friendly service and advice.

decorgardenworld.co.nz

Michele Griffin 4/13/23 Michele Griffin 4/13/23

Vet’s roll!

Animal expert and vet David McDonnell at Tauranga Vets offers advice on the purr-fect way to prepare for your vet visit.

With people’s busy schedules, getting the most out of your visit to the vet can help save you time, energy – and stress! To streamline the consultation and ensure you leave with the best advice and recommendations, it’s important to communicate well.

Veterinarians genuinely want their clients to get value from their visits, and help solve any animal issues or
pet problems in the most timely and affordable way possible. With that goal in mind, here are some things
you can do to get the most out of your vet consultation.

First on the list is making an appointment. Many clinics offer online bookings, which are a great way to efficiently find a time that fits your schedule. When booking, it’s important to thoughtfully answer questions around any concerns you may have about your pet. This helps the software prioritise your pet’s care needs and give the vet clinic staff the right information about what you’re coming in for. However, if it’s an urgent case or you’re worried, call the clinic – receptionists and vet nurses can often triage the situation over the phone, and again, the more specific you can be with symptoms or the issue at hand, the better they’ll be able to assist you.

When it’s time for your visit, it’s super helpful to come prepared. Bring your pet’s record book and a list of questions or concerns. If your pet is particularly anxious, it can be beneficial to make a time prior to the appointment to come in and pick up some medication that can help lessen their stress.

To ensure your pet’s wellbeing and safety, make sure dogs are brought in on a leash, and cats are secure in a cage. Look for Cat Friendly Accredited clinics – at Tauranga Vets, we ensure that waiting and consult areas are separate for cats and dogs, and stagger their appointment times to keep our feline and canine companions apart.

Consider bringing in pictures or videos of your pet’s concerning behaviour or symptoms. A picture paints a thousand words, and this tool can be very helpful for diagnosing issues. If possible, have a list of dates, times, changes to food, environment, or home dynamics. Animals can often be affected by the nuances of life, and a good history of the situation is important.

Once in the rooms, your pet will take its cues from you. If you’re calm, it will help them to remain so. At Tauranga Vets, our consulting rooms have feline pheromone diffusers which are used to calm cats, and we’re trained in specific ways to handle them so as to minimise any stress they may feel. But as their owner, your calm demeanour can go a long way toward helping your pet to stay calm as well.

At the end of the consultation, your vet should clearly explain the next steps. More tests may be required, or a treatment plan be written up. If you need more clarification or you have questions, don’t be shy – just ask.
If you have concerns regarding payment, discuss these with the vet nurse, as many clinics now offer different payment options, such as Afterpay.

Your vet should communicate well with you, too. And if you’re both committed to clear, calm, respectful communication with your pet’s health at the centre of the conversation, you’ll have a much smoother and more efficient visit – and less stress all around.

bopvets.co.nz

Michele Griffin 4/10/23 Michele Griffin 4/10/23

Growing your future

When it comes to securing your financial future, growth assets and collaboration go hand in hand.

Words Owen Cooney / Photos Jahl Marshall

In times of uncertainty and fear, it’s hard to know where your money should go. All this talk about inflation can be confusing but by taking a step back, and looking at the bigger picture, you can get a better understanding of where your money is best kept in hard times.

In times of rising inflation, commercial investment can be a wise move. Even when the yield on a commercial property remains the same, your dollar is still worth a dollar. The bank’s dollar, on the other hand, is worth less and less with inflation.

Growth assets, such as commercial investment, will protect the spending power of your dollar. Long leases hold through to the next cycle, and so being exposed to growth assets is a game you need to be playing if you hope to grow your wealth long term.

However, with all of today’s challenges, it becomes hard to even create a wealth plan and build a future in the first place. That’s where a collaborative approach can work. Joining a private collective means you join a group of like-minded individuals who jointly purchase, then lease, the building in question.

There are many advantages to owning a share of a building using this model, compared to owning the building outright.

Firstly, the collective admin team does the legwork in that they find high-quality properties worth investing in. Secondly, they ensure the numbers stack up and the right contractual arrangements are in place to generate a profit from the get-go. And, thirdly, they organise reliable tenants and take care of all bank financing, lease arrangements and financial reporting.

If you're keen to connect with our network of investors and potentially join a collective when the right opportunity arises, head over to the Classic Collectives website and schedule your own 15-minute discovery call. There are no obligations to join our syndicates; we’re simply here to answer your questions.

Being able to ask honest questions and get straight answers is perhaps the best investment of all. It only costs your time.

classiccollectives.co.nz

Michele Griffin 4/8/23 Michele Griffin 4/8/23

Canine couture

These high-quality pet accessories help our furry friends leave lighter pawprints on the planet.

These high-quality pet accessories help our furry
friends leave lighter pawprints on the planet.

Words Catherine Sylvester | Photos Salina Galvan

In this day of greater awareness around climate change and the flow-on effect our purchasing habits have on the environment, more people are turning to brands that not only stand the test of time but create the least negative impact in these areas. Until recently, local pet owners had very few options when it came to seeking accessories with these factors in mind for their beloved four-legged friends. This all changed at the start of last year when Scott and Nicole Brown brought their quality pet accessory business, Paw & Partners with them when they moved from Tāmaki Makaurau to Tauranga.

Birthed out of Nicole’s veterinary practice in Milford in 2015, the business stocks a wide range of high-end products catering to the needs of customer’s canine and feline family members.

Leashes and collars from the German company Hunter were the first pieces Scott imported for their collection. He explains, “The leashes and collars are handmade in Germany.”

These proved so popular that the couple found pet-lovers were travelling from all over Auckland to their North Shore practice, due to word-of-mouth. The Browns knew they were on to a winner. Their desire to ensure they could further provide for their customers’ needs saw them expand the range to include food bowls, beds, harnesses, and educational toys.

“Dogs can often get lonely and bored if left by themselves at home,” Scott says. “That’s usually when they’ll get themselves into mischief – digging up lawns, chewing.” He explains that the interactive dog toys are helpful in keeping them occupied and focused, as getting to the elusive treat stashed inside is a real challenge.

“It stimulates their brains,” he continues. “The dog must figure out how to get the goodies out using only their paws and mouth. They can’t just shake or chew the toy to get to what they want.”

Scott’s passion for his business is evident. He travels to Europe to hunt down the best quality pet supply products he can find. Meeting the manufacturers face-to-face or attending international expos is of utmost importance. “It’s the only way to guarantee we’re getting the best quality that can be found,” he says.

One product he’s particularly fallen in love with is beds. “Some people like buying beautiful watches or shoes,” Scott smiles. “I like buying and supplying beautiful dog beds.” Scott explains that the fabric quality
is similar to that which can be found on regular furniture, and all the covers are machine-washable, which is very handy for those puppies who can’t yet make it through the night dry!

Bay of Plenty French Bulldog breeder Nik Fasching (Mount Frenchie Club) swears by Paw & Partners products. “The average dog will live for around 14 years, so it makes sense to invest wisely,” Nik explains. “I used to go through so many cheap beds – the dogs would chew them, or they’d fall apart in the wash. These ones last. They’re so good and they make beautiful gifts.”

Nik steers customers towards these high-quality products. “The cheap stuff just ends up in landfill so quickly. Economically, these are a sound choice.”

Another recent addition is the harness, and Paw & Partners stock these in a range of sizes for both cats and dogs. “We’re using the Danish company Dog Copenhagen for the canine ones,” says Scott. “They make some of the best harnesses in the world – it’s all the company does.” One model is fitted with a D-ring on the chest, which Scott explains is particularly good to retrain the dog who pulls at the leash when out walking. “Many dog trainers recommend this harness,” he continues. “We’ve had lots of feedback that this is the best thing customers have purchased.”

With a retail store situated in Tauranga city centre, and an online store for those living a little further afield, Paw & Partners has made investing wisely into your pets easy. What started out as the notion of “we can do better for our customers” when it came to pet accessories, has turned into a reality for this couple. A reality that all pet owners – and their pets – can now benefit from.

pawandpartners.co.nz

Michele Griffin 1/15/23 Michele Griffin 1/15/23

Level up your property game

Residential landlords have it tougher than ever right now and while new policy may have pulled the plug on decent returns and capital gains, things are certainly looking up for property investment of a different kind.

Words Owen Cooney | Photo Jahl Marshall

Buying a residential rental property has been the "go-to" investment for ordinary Kiwis for decades. Many of us have used the equity in our family home to leverage into a residential property portfolio and build our wealth over time. But today, skyrocketing house prices mean the days of buying a good quality rental for $400,000 are a long-forgotten dream.

Interest on loans is no longer tax deductible, and the healthy homes requirements mean landlords must pay (sometimes hefty sums) to upgrade the heating, insulation, ventilation and so on. Interest rates are rising and banks are not as forthcoming with mortgage approvals as they once were.

What most Kiwis don’t realise is that, with the right tactic, commercial property can be a more affordable alternative with even better returns on your investment. High-rise buildings, shopping malls, health hubs, childcare centres and commercial offices all may seem out of reach to the suburban home investor, but the good news is you do not have to be a multi-millionaire to own them.

Classic Collectives Limited establishes private collectives of individuals who are willing to collaborate to become joint owners of premium commercial and/or industrial property. From supermarkets in Pōkeno to community shopping centres in North Canterbury, they identify high-quality buildings and bring the right mix of investors together to purchase and lease them.

Some of these investors are retirees or nearing the end of their working careers – but there’s a rise in people in their 30s and 40s who see the opportunity to establish a sound investment that will not only provide income, but also have growth potential.

By collaborating with other like-minded individuals, it’s entirely possible to own a share of a substantial commercial building. The benefits of the collectives include receiving a positive yield from the get-go, and having independent professional management so there is no day-to-day workload or responsibilities involved.

So instead of driving past your rental property and noticing the grass is overgrown, you can level up your investment portfolio by just investing smarter and take pride in knowing you own a significant multi-million
dollar asset – however many stories high it might be!

invest@classiccollectives.co.nz

Classiccollectives.co.nz

Michele Griffin 1/14/23 Michele Griffin 1/14/23

The main event

Beacall Hospitality is so much more than a hospitality recruiting company – their goal is to make your event simply magical, says director Michael Beacall.

Words Catherine Sylvester | Photos Salina Galvan + supplied

As a young lad growing up on the Wirral, looking out across the murky waters to Liverpool, Michael Beacall spent his free time helping out in the pub his parents operated. A natural entrepreneur, Michael would collect the glasses patrons were finished with, and relieve them of their small change for his troubles.

“If you know what an English pub is like, you’ll know I made quite a tidy little profit for myself,” chuckles Michael, recalling his early business acumen.

Michael fondly recalls his early days in the bar. It was there that his love for the hospitality industry was born, with the local pub being a central factor in his community’s comings and goings.

“The classic British pub is so different to anything else,” Michael explains. “Everyone knows everyone. It’s like one big family. You’d have felt safe leaving your kids with the folks there. At that young age, it was a lot of fun being around everyone.”

It was these important threads of relationship, hospitality, and business that Michael packed for his journey when he made the decision at 18 to stretch his wings and emigrate to Aotearoa.

Feeling the need for a fresh start after a self-described lacklustre performance from his first official business – a hospitality recruitment agency – the beautiful shores and climate of Tauranga Moana seemed the ideal tonic. Having his childhood best mate already living here was the icing on the cake.

Throughout his first years calling the Bay home, Michael undertook the type of employment he knew best – bar work and security. It was during this time that he formed many of the relationships that supported and encouraged him when the time came to resurrect his former business concept.

“I decided to give the recruitment agency another go. I could see a real gap here to service the smaller corporate events, as well as bars and restaurants,” Michael explains. “At that time there weren’t any agencies catering specifically to the hospitality sector. I found my niche and went for it.”

Spurred on by the encouragement of festival promoter Glen Meikle, whom Michael had once worked for, he launched Beacall Hospitality with himself as the sole employee in 2018. The company experienced exponential growth in the first five months. So much so, that he knew he would need help to continue the smooth operation of the business.

“My first employee was a woman I’d worked previously with at a local bar,” Michael remembers. “Nynie Harvey became my 2IC. She basically took over the responsibilities of event hire and staff management, payroll, uniforms, contracts – she became the backbone of the operation.”

A no-holds-barred approach to generating work for his company, rather than waiting for it to come to him, is one of Michael’s greatest assets. With him securing contracts and contacts, and Nynie keeping the day-to-day office running, the business went from strength to strength. Within months the books were full of labourers, wait and bar staff ready to work. Kayla Hayes came on board to relieve the pressure of Nynie in December 2018 and is still there today.

Business was booming. Everything was going so beautifully that Michael, along with a new business partner, Pierre Te Wheoro, was able to expand by launching Platinum Security Solutions, to cater specifically to the bars and nightclubs around town.

And then, 2020 rolled around and everything came to a shuddering standstill.

The entire hospitality sector was hit hard by lockdowns, and Beacall Hospitality was no exception. Not being one to rest on his laurels, it was during this time of enforced hiatus that the inklings of a more comprehensive business model began to brew.

“I started to think about what it’d be like to offer clients a one-stop shop,” says Michael. “To be able to offer catering, tables and chairs, wait and bar staff – the works!”

Knowing no other company was currently providing this service, Michael used the enforced time at home to work on a plan to make his concept a reality. Once the country crept its way out of lockdown and people began to cautiously plan small events again, Michael was ready to go.

However, the expansion was not without its challenges.

“Being in Red in the Traffic Light System was almost harder than being in complete lockdown,” Michael explains. “People were scared to spend money and concerned about things changing unexpectedly. If they did book something, there was no guarantee that one link in the chain wouldn’t catch COVID-19 and have to pull out.”

This happened more than once but Michael and his team rose to the occasion. When a wedding that had been scheduled at a café in Waihi suddenly had to move venues with only 24 hours’ notice, Beacall Hospitality stepped in to save the day.

“We got a 3pm call the day before the wedding. The chef who’d been hired to cater it had caught COVID-19 and the couple needed to not only find new catering, but move venues,” says Michael. “By 10am the following morning, we had our gear and caterers there setting up. Everything ran smoothly from then.”

In order to keep the company’s doors open and staff employed during this time of financial uncertainty, Michael offered services to clients at cost, and personally covered wages – a decision he doesn’t regret, but one that will take some time to recover from.

“Doing this meant that not only my company could survive, but other businesses could too,” explains Michael. “Moving into Orange level was good as contracts picked up then. Going to Green was great as it just got busier.”

After the COVID-19 lockdowns, another friend, Renee McVarnock, joined the company to fill the role left when Nynie moved on to work in a different industry. “Both these women have made a huge difference to the success of the business,” Michael says.

When hit by these challenges, it’s the love for his family that keeps Michael going. “I do what I do so I can give them the life they want,” he says.

In the midst of colourful traffic light levels, Beacall Hospitality expanded operations into Matamata. They’ve since travelled as far afield as Hastings, Taupō, Napier, Rotorua, with Tāmaki Makaurau
– Auckland to be added next month.

As life settles back into some semblance of normal, Michael is able to breathe a bit more freely. Recently he attended his first ever music festival purely as a punter. “Friday Jams was the first concert I’ve been to where I wasn’t working,” he recalls. “And it was amazing!”

His publican parents have travelled out to visit him and are understandably impressed with what he’s achieved. “My folks have been out here twice and they love it,” Michael says. “They’re definitely proud of their boy.”

While Michael’s blood still runs extra red for his beloved Liverpool Football Club and he has not yet traded it all in for a black jersey, home is definitely New Zealand for the foreseeable future.

“Things are great. I play soccer with the Pāpāmoa Football Club, have time with my family, and enjoy my work,” smiles Michael. “I’m definitely living the dream.”

beacallhospitality.com

Michele Griffin 1/13/23 Michele Griffin 1/13/23

Work, store, play

Meeting the high demand from commercial tenants and investors in Tauranga, the developers of a new venture in Mount Maunganui expect strong response, equal to that of its sister complex, now underway at Pāpāmoa.

Words Jo Ferris

The Hatch – The Mount embodies the concept of work, store and play – a slight variation on Tauranga’s wider approach to work, live and play. These units aren’t designed as live-in premises. However, their innovative concept embraces a workplace where people will enjoy the comforts of home in a vibrant village community.

Earmarked for a prominent location in MacDonald Street, The Hatch offers 38 units, from 60sqm to 106sqm. Most units will include two car parks and additional parking will be available to lease.

Sitting near a major flyover and arterial link at the junction between Hewletts and Maunganui roads, this is minutes from the airport, sporting venues, shopping centres in downtown Mount and Bayfair, and harbour bridge access to Tauranga and port. Surrounded by a myriad of recreational, educational and business amenities, The Hatch offers beneficial advantages for tenants as their businesses feed off one another and the surrounding precinct.

Like its Pāpāmoa sibling, the sympathetic design creates a mini community within an aesthetically pleasing complex. Matt Allen from Cube Architecture designed a complex in four blocks, with a large open car park at the rear. There will be two main carriages – both flanked by units along the boundary on each side – and both entries off MacDonald Street. These will be linked by a lane leading to the office-styled units at the rear. Retail units running along the street front will present a boutique showcase for the complex. Their vehicle access will be behind each unit, off the lane.

Enhancing this aesthetic approach, large roller doors will create a wide-open perspective for the eclectic appeal of the units facing the main carriageways. Office units will enjoy a calmer outlook to the lane.

Buoyed by the success of Pāpāmoa’s Hatch, Colliers Tauranga managing director, Simon Clark is excited to repeat the confidence shown in this type of development. Pāpāmoa is all but sold and interest in this development was sparked early on as a result.

“The Mount is extremely desirable. Vacancies are at record lows and tenants/owner-occupiers are starved of opportunities in this tightly held industrial precinct.”

Simon says The Hatch’s innovative design fuses commercial and light industrial in hybrid workspaces, making it perfect for forward-thinking businesses. The thought behind this kind of development combines adaptability with accessibility. Sophistication meets industrial aesthetics. And, while the emphasis is on a vibrant and eclectic work environment, The Hatch’s mantra highlights its other purpose for storage.

“Whether you’re setting up a new venture, looking for more versatile premises or simply need somewhere to store your toys, The Hatch – The Mount offers a unique solution at a competitive price point.”

Marketed exclusively by Simon and fellow Colliers broker Rob Schoeser, prices start at $754,000 plus GST (if any), with construction estimated to start mid-2023.

colliers.co.nz