The AI issues to consider pg 29 Understand it. Use it.
Your needs, BNH’s focus pg 24
Business North Harbour provides a voice for your concerns, networking opportunities for your business development, and access to key stakeholders and decision makers who may affect your investment.
Crime Prevention
We support our members by managing the contracted nightly security patrols of our Business Improvement District area, 365 days of the year. We conduct safety, security, and communications briefings with the North Shore Police.
Advocacy
We provide an advocacy voice to local and central government for our members’ concerns on local, regional, and national issues, and provide access to key stakeholders and decision makers who may affect your investment.
Traffic, Transport & Roading
We work with all council-controlled agencies to develop initiatives that address access and environmental concerns, including congestion reduction. We also provide information on alternative modes of transport.
Sustainability
We provide the resources and operational support to encourage business sustainability by enabling members to access food waste and inorganic waste collections along with pallet and cardboard box swaps.
Events
Our events programme provides members with an extensive range of networking, mentoring, wellbeing, training, and educational opportunities.
Member Communications
Members are kept informed of relevant news, updates and events and are provided with useful business support resources and information.
Business Directory
Our online Business Directory provides free listings for businesses operating within our Business Improvement District and allows businesses to update and manage their listing information online.
Other Services
Members can take advantage of more benefits and activities, such as our Showcase North Harbour business expo, One Day Sale, candidate employment and internship opportunities along with complimentary member hireage of the Business North Harbour training room.
Contact FYI Magazine
Business North Harbour
General Manager
Kevin O’Leary kevin@businessnh.org.nz
Advertising Bernadette Roberts comms@businessnh.org.nz
Editor
Lizzie Brandon lizzie@writesphere.co.nz
Design Lewis Hurst lewis@hurstmedia.nz Printer
PrintLounge printlounge.co.nz
The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. The publishers do not endorse any person, company or organisation that advertises in this publication.
Business North Harbour, Unit 2, Level 1, 322 Rosedale Road, Rosedale, 0632.
PO Box 303 126, North Harbour 0751
OFFICE 09 968 2222
WEB businessnh.org.nz
Welcome from the GM
IN THIS EDITION of FYI, I wanted to take a break from summarising the ups and downs of the economy since the previous edition, to keep you informed about what’s happening with the magazine. For the financial year beginning 1 July, we have decided to reduce our production from four to three issues, one of which (i.e., this issue) will be available online only. This decision hasn’t been taken lightly, with cost savings the main driver. However, some positive sustainability outcomes will also be achieved due to the reduction in the printing of hard copies. This decision will be reviewed before the new financial year, but, in the meantime, I hope that your enjoyment of FYI and its excellent content won’t be diminished. The usual useful information and insightful articles will all be included, albeit in a slightly different format for some readers. I hope you continue to enjoy the magazine. Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding. In this edition, we look at AI and how businesses of all sizes can embrace it to improve their efficiency, and we dispel some of the myths that make people reluctant to give AI a try. The cover story focuses on our recent AI conference. Expert speakers shared invaluable insights and answered attendees’ questions about the practical ways in which
this rapidly evolving tech can help small businesses in particular, and also offered advice about the pitfalls to avoid. And part of our Sustainability section complements this by reminding us of the ethical and environmental considerations that must also be borne in mind.
The Community page is all about Immerse, a local charity with the ongoing mission of helping to see a transformed and transformational culture of foster care in Aotearoa. Ingage is one of their most popular programmes, supporting children and young people in the care of Oranga Tamariki, and providing valuable respite for caregivers. Find out how your business could make Ingage’s Saturday sessions extra special on page 37.
All at BNH look forward to our continued engagement with you and your team across our wide-ranging programmes and services.
Kia kaha
Kevin O’Leary General Manager, Business North Harbour
Thank you to our 2025-2026 PLATINUM PARTNERS
Thank you to our 2025-2026 GOLD PARTNERS
Thank you to our 2025-2026 SILVER PARTNERS
How just 20 minutes outdoors really can boost your health
NOW THAT WE’RE enjoying lighter evenings and warmer weather, there’s even more reason to make the most of time outside. A recent bbc.com article explored how simply being in nature can lift our mood, calm our body, and support our overall physical and mental wellbeing.
Time in nature can lower stress hormones, steady our heart rate, and even help our gut health. And the best part? You don’t need hours in the bush; just 20 minutes at a time will help. A lunchtime walk, eating your sandwich on a park bench, or a gentle evening stroll can make a real difference.
When we see trees, hear birdsong, or catch the scent of pine (not
that there are many pine forests in North Harbour!), our body’s nervous system automatically relaxes. Studies show that people who spend at least two hours a week outdoors feel healthier and happier overall. Nature also helps reset our hormones: cortisol and adrenaline drop, while virus-fighting “natural killer” cells get a boost that can last for weeks.
And (mindful) contact with soil and plants can introduce friendly bacteria that support both our immune system and our mood.
Even if we can’t get to the park, it seems that flowers, essential oils, or even photos of forests can help our brains unwind.
Read Yasmin Rufo’s article in full
Escape into a good book
STEP AWAY FROM everyday hustle and bustle and into a story. It’s the perfect way to unwind this summer.
The
Impossible Fortune
The unmissable new mystery in the bestselling, record-breaking Thursday Murder Club series by Richard Osman.
It’s been a quiet year for the Thursday Murder Club. But when Elizabeth meets a wedding guest who fears for their life, the thrill of the chase is ignited once again. A villain wants access to an uncrackable code and will stop at nothing to get it. Plunged back into their most explosive investigation yet, can the gang solve the puzzle and a murder in time?
(Penguin Books)
The Bookshop Detectives 2: Tea and Cake and Death
Another case to solve for the number-one bestselling Bookshop Detectives.
In this rollicking new adventure, Garth and Eloise (and Stevie the rescue dog) must sniff out a prolific poisoner ahead of a vital fundraising event, the Battle of the Book Clubs. As time runs out and the body count rises, it seems the bad actors are circling closer to the people and places they care about.
Authors, Gareth and Louise Ward, are the real-life owners of independent bookshop Wardini Books, with stores in Havelock North and Napier, New Zealand.
(Penguin Books)
The Long Shoe
The latest book by the 2 million copy bestselling author, Bob Mortimer. Matt had been happily drifting through life – but recently, he lost his job as a bathroom salesman, and the tenancy on his home is about to expire. To top it all off, he wakes up one day to find his partner, Harriet, has left him. Is she just taking a break – or is something far more sinister occurring? What’s his new job really about? And could the purchase of a very long shoe improve his situation?
(Simon & Schuster)
The Widow
#1 New York Times bestselling author John Grisham is the acclaimed master of the legal thriller. Now, he’s back with his first-ever whodunit, even more suspenseful than his courtroom dramas, as a small-time lawyer accused of murder races to find the real killer to clear his name. (jgrisham.com)
Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts
The life and times of Margaret Atwood, one of the most important writers of our time. From her peripatetic childhood in the Canadian far north, through the writing of The Handmaid’s Tale, to her position today as revered truth-teller and literary icon. (Penguin Books)
A pawsitively perfect Christmas gift?
THE TENTH EDITION of the Police Dog Trust Calendar is now available, and law enforcement canine colleagues are looking better than ever!
Dozens of NZ Police patrol dogs, detector dogs and wannabe floof recruits have been captured putting their best paws forward – on and off duty – by talented forensic photographers from around the country.
The 2026 Police Dog Trust Calendar features 14 full-page photos and 26 smaller images, spanning 13 months. This year, there were more than 300 submissions from 11 photographers. The judges didn’t know who’d taken any of the photos until they’d selected the winners.
National coordinator of New Zealand Police Dogs and chair of the Police Dog Trust, Inspector Todd Southall, says he was delighted with the standard of entries again this year. “Our talented photographers keep surprising us by finding new ways to show our worldclass dogs at their best.
“The competition this year was as tight as ever, but with so many incredible images of our dogs and pups at work and play, it’s made for another great calendar.”
The winning image, which also features as this year’s cover, shows patrol dog Teo mid-flight, in pursuit
of her favourite toy. It was taken by Senior Constable Alex Stammers, an Auckland-based forensic photographer covering Tāmaki Makaurau, who was also awarded both highly commended prizes.
The calendar costs $20 and is available via The Cop Shop. Proceeds from sales aid the work of the Police Dog Charitable Trust, which helps give extra support to police dog breeding, research and development programmes, over and above New Zealand Police’s investment.
WITH COST-OF-LIVING PRESSURES still biting, using up what’s already in the house is a sensible way to save money and minimise food waste. Festive leftovers don’t have to feel like you’re eating the same meal over and over. Delicious offers dozens of ideas, ranging from turkey, blackberry and fig salad to gingerbread latte to pea and ham croquettes. Visit the website and see what inspires you…
Detector dog Rivet, photographed by Senior Constable Charlotte Dyndul.
The Power of Vulnerablity in Leadership
12 June | North Shore Golf Club
Genevieve Mora, co-founder, Voices of Hope | Women in Business, proudly supported by Phone Plus Group The Sticky Business Strategy: Stop Leaving Money on the Table and Ditch the Client Chase
7 August | BNH Offices
Natalie Tolhopf | Learning Lab
Rt Hon Chris Hipkins & Hon Carmel Sepuloni: Labour's Vision for the Economy
7 November | National Hockey Stadium Business Lunch
Hydroflow: working together today for a more sustainable tomorrow
FOR OVER 40 years, Hydroflow has been a trusted name in water and gas technology across Australasia, supporting five major market sectors. With its main office in Bush Road, the company’s reputation is built on technical expertise, innovation, and collaboration; values that also guide its environmental efforts.
Hydroflow’s people-first approach to sustainability was recently recognised at Fieldays, where the company received the 2025 Sustainability Award – Large Business for its proactive efforts to minimise environmental impact throughout the event.
Sustainability was a priority from planning through to execution. Every aspect was thoughtfully managed: all stands recycled their own water, visitors were
encouraged to refill bottles at a UV-filtered station, and the café operated entirely plastic-free, using reusable utensils. Staff also carpooled and prepared meals together to reduce waste. Notably, nearly all waste materials, including coffee cups, lids, plates, and even refuse sacks, were fully compostable.
Hydroflow’s sustainability strategy is grounded in practical action. CEO Kathryn Sixton explains, “Environmental stewardship is at the heart of our operations. Lead-free initiatives, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing are central to our ongoing efforts.”
The company has begun its transition to utilising hybrid electric vehicles, which has already reduced fleet CO₂ emissions by over 12.5 per cent. In the warehouse, 80 per cent of machinery is now electric, with plans to reach 90 per cent soon. Hydroflow is also tracking waste, LPG usage, printing, and energy consumption to establish data driven baselines that will guide future sustainability initiatives. By combining smart technology with everyday actions and a committed team, Hydroflow is aiming to demonstrate that true sustainability is a shared responsibility – one that starts with people and grows through practical, thoughtful choices.
BNH MEMBER NEWS
Stronger together: collaboration in action
THE RECENT LOCAL elections, which saw candidates from a wide range of backgrounds battling it out for your support, have thankfully concluded.
For the last few months, as usual, these elections were the main priority for our prospective candidates, and I’m pleased to report that the positive relationship that BNH enjoys with Upper Harbour Local Board (UHLB) and our two Albany Ward councillors will continue following the announcement of the final results.
Although there are some new faces and relationships to develop within UHLB, the re-elected candidates will help me to navigate these with their new colleagues. This will also be the case with Victoria Short replacing Wayne Walker as one of the Albany Ward councillors, who will work alongside John Watson, who has retained his position. I’ve reached out to all parties to pick up our relationships as soon as they were all inaugurated in early November.
BNH MEMBER NEWS
Since July, BNH has been working very closely with the Ministerial Advisory Group For The Victims Of Retail Crime, as they submit numerous proposals to the government in an attempt to clarify what actions can and can’t be taken by victims of retail crime and to improve the help and support available to people in retail settings. Some of their proposals to which BNH has given feedback have included areas such as anti-social behaviour, personal safety and security powers, and proactive technology solutions.
Sandra and I have also continued to liaise with Auckland Transport (AT) on a couple of important topics that will affect some members. AT is seeking feedback on its Comprehensive Parking Management Plan For Albany. Hopefully, by the time you read this, you will have received information on how to have your say. The second topic
is the ongoing saga of the construction of Rosedale Bus Station, which AT has assured me will commence in early 2026. Prior to this, in collaboration with BNH, AT will hold a public meeting to keep affected businesses informed of their project plans and timelines. Whenever possible, BNH always advocates for members by encouraging people to keep supporting our local businesses by buying local and utilising locally available services, which I hope continues to reap rewards for some of our members.
Kevin O’Leary GM, Business North Harbour
New beginnings at Active+ Albany
ACTIVE+ ALBANY IS under new ownership. John Cai and Rui Kang are Albany residents who bring their skills in nursing and business ownership to the clinic on Don McKinnon Drive starting in December.
Current owner Steph Lane will continue to work within the Active+ network in a different capacity and will hand over ownership and management of the clinic. Steph first came to the clinic as a client, then joined the staff, and eventually took over ownership nine years ago. She says, “What I have loved about the Active+ family is exactly that. It has always been a family concern and will continue to be so.
“When my back specialist sent me to Pilates with Megan, I had no idea I would
never leave, but that’s exactly how it has been with so many of our clients. We see people from every stage of their injury/rehab journey, and in many cases, including my own, they see multiple family members.
“My youngest daughter, Amy, started at the clinic at age 5 with her colouring book in hand while she watched me do Pilates. Since then, she has worked as a receptionist and has funded some of her law degree with work as a fully trained Pilates instructor.
“Needless to say, Amy will continue teaching at Active+ Albany as long as she is able.
“John and Rui bring this same family vibe to the clinic and will no doubt soon be as much a part of the furniture as I have been!”
Steph adds, “I am also very proud of our association with Southern Cross Healthcare and the fact that we are a Kiwi-owned and operated business and will remain so.”
New co-owner, Rui King
North Harbour’s leading lights: BNH Partners 2025/26
PLATINUM PARTNERS
3RD YEAR
Your authorised Hyundai car dealer for sales, service, and parts in Auckland. The friendly team looks forward to welcoming you to experience what it means to be a valued Ingham customer. inghamdriven.nz/hyundai-northharbour
EIGHTEEN YEARS AGO, Business North Harbour introduced its first Gold Sponsorship, giving members an opportunity to champion excellence and contribute to our thriving North Harbour business community.
What began as a single level of support has since evolved into a flexible Partnership programme with Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Event Category options. The shift from “sponsors” to “partners” says it all – this is a genuine collaboration.
We’re delighted that many existing Partners have chosen to stay on board this year, and we warmly welcome Insphire and Orange PR.
“Our Partners’ support is invaluable. They make so much of what we do possible, from the number of events we hold to the quality our members have come to expect.”
3RD YEAR
Ember Services blends professional expertise and lived experience to provide mental health, alcohol and other drug and intellectual disability support services throughout New Zealand’s North Island. Ember’s vision is an Aotearoa where everyone is supported to be who and what they want to be. ember.org.nz GOLD PARTNERS
7TH YEAR
Offering New Zealanders a smarter, customised approach to vehicle investigation, sourcing, leasing, and finance.
driveline.co.nz
6TH YEAR
A diverse business covering advertising, design, web development, printing, publishing, display, exhibition, and signage. benefitz.co.nz
3RD YEAR
For over 30 years, Parkland Products have been New Zealand’s leading provider of world-class irrigation and turf maintenance products and services. We can help you with achieving quality turf, beautiful landscaping, and efficient water management systems. parkland.co.nz
1ST YEAR
5TH YEAR
Technology experts providing business owners with solutions that enable their organisations to be secure, resilient, and productive. spark.co.nz/hubaucklandnorth
Insphire specialises in the rental of catering equipment, function furniture, tableware and linen as well as all the accents your event may need. We have everything for summer events, personal celebrations such as weddings and anniversaries, corporate functions, banquets and an all-around GRAND party. insphire.co.nz
SILVER PARTNERS
4TH YEAR
2ND YEAR
“Our aim is to protect your assets and your people’s livelihoods against intruder interference at reasonable rates.”
vanguardsecurity.co.nz
The ASSA ABLOY Group is the global leader in access solutions. In New Zealand, the company specialises in customised door and window products, with a full manufacturing facility at its North Harbour head office. assaabloy.com/nz/en
2ND YEAR
Rothbury Insurance Brokers has been in business since 1950. As brokers, they work for their clients, not the insurers. “We’ll always put you first and be there to advise and support you as your needs change. And, when you do need to make a claim, we’ll be there for that, too.” rothbury.co.nz
1ST YEAR
Orange started in 2017 as a marketing and event agency, and now has teams based in Auckland and Fujian. Over the years, we have worked with many amazing brands. We offer our clients a one-stop fullservice for all their marketing needs. orangepr.co.nz
Charity plans expansion to meet growing demand for low-cost counselling
HEARTS & MINDS, an established provider of mental wellbeing support across Waitematā since 1978 (formerly Raeburn House), is preparing to expand its low-cost counselling services in response to growing community demand.
Earlier this year, the demolition of its Northcote community hub meant the loss of a beloved space and a key council contract, creating significant challenges for the team. At the same time, the organisation recognised a pressing gap: many local residents could not access affordable counselling, while final-year counselling students needed more practical experience hours to complete their qualifications.
In response, Hearts & Minds launched a pilot programme offering counselling through student counsellors. The programme went well, but demand grew so quickly that a six-week waitlist formed.
To meet this need, Hearts & Minds is now planning to create an additional counselling room at its office at 90
Rosedale Road. Bunnings has generously offered materials for the project, and AFA Home Improvement & Landscaping is set to carry out the build. Once complete, this new space will effectively double the organisation’s low-cost counselling capacity, enabling over 600 sessions in the coming year for residents across North Shore, Waitākere, and Rodney.
“This project is still unfolding, but it’s exciting to see how support from our local community is helping us expand access to affordable, professional counselling,” said chief executive Amberlee Wharton. “We look forward to sharing updates as the new counselling room takes shape and, ultimately, welcoming the community to experience the expanded service.”
BNH MEMBER NEWS
AI for Business Conference Understand it. Use it. Grow with it.
Proudly supported by IT360 and Spark Business Hub Auckland North 14 November 2025 | North Harbour Stadium
IN AN ASTONISHINGLY short space of time, artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved from a provocative but abstract headline to practical questions for organisations of every size: “What does this mean for our business?” How do we use it to our advantage?” And, perhaps most importantly: “Where should we start?
Business North Harbour’s first AI conference brought together more than 160 local business owners, managers, and employees. Through keynote presentations, practical demonstrations, a panel Q&A, and ideas enthusiastically exchanged around the tables, these attendees gained invaluable insights directly relevant to their own operations.
This summary aims to include as many of the central themes and talking points as possible.
From uncertainty to practical curiosity
Across all industries and business sizes, the conversation about AI is no longer driven by fear of automation or hype. Instead, it is more about curiosity, experimentation, and a desire to work more intelligently.
The mindset has shifted, with many SMEs now seeing AI less as a replacement for people and more as a set of tools that can support them, especially for labour- and time-intensive repetitive tasks.
Only three years after ChatGPT’s public launch, AI capability is doubling
By Lizzie Brandon
roughly every seven months. Business owners and managers who once asked, “Will this take my job?” are now more likely to ask, “Which task should I automate first?”
Surveys suggest the majority of New Zealand consumers are already using AI in some form, even if they do not recognise it (Google Maps, for example). Yet, New Zealand is somewhat behind the curve compared to the rest of the world. In retail, for example, local workers lag far behind their Singaporean or Australian counterparts in day-to-day AI use, even though most say they want to adopt it.
Angela Hunter: “What’s the one customer experience in your business that you would love to see improved? What’s the sales goal that could take your business to the next level? Look at the AI tools that can help you get there.”
GUEST EXPERTS
Justin Flitter Founder of NewZealand.AI
Asa Cox Founder and CEO, Arcanum AI
Greg Cross Co-Founder, Coach, and Non-Exec Director, Eighty20.AI
87% NZ organisations that use some form of AI, up from 48% in 2023
70% say that use is not focused on sales
40% report business impact
33% NZ retail workers who use AI, compared to 92% in Singapore and 50% in Australia
77% NZ retail workers who want to use AI to improve their work
13% Kiwi businesses that are providing AI training for their teams
37% Kiwis who say they’re comfortable with AI-powered recommendations, below the global average of 60%
The problem, therefore, isn’t a lack of interest, but a lack of confidence, clarity, and capability. Without proper training, as Justin Flitter remarked, “We’re giving people the keys to a Maserati without a driver’s licence.”
Asa Cox: “AI gives you an internal business analyst, data analyst, and business intelligence analyst at your fingertips.”
Empowering people, not replacing them
One of the strongest messages from the conference was that AI works best when it amplifies human capability rather than replaces it. Several real-world examples highlighted this:
• A business coach using AI to structure meeting preparation, analyse transcripts and generate action plans, freeing time for deeper client engagement. As a result, her billable capacity has increased by 50 per cent.
• An engineering firm deploying “computer vision” to help identify potential health and safety issues (e.g., hi-vis not being worn appropriately) or actually sound the alarm to stop machinery and reduce workplace accidents.
• Customer-facing businesses using AI voice agents to answer missed calls, resulting in directly attributable sales previously lost to competitors.
The question asked repeatedly throughout the conference was: “What is the one task you dislike doing every week or month? Wouldn’t it be worth exploring whether AI could take care of that for you?”
Productivity through practicality Speakers agreed that, for the vast majority of businesses, the real value of AI lies not in futuristic applications, but in solving persistent bottlenecks or inefficiencies, such as generating quotes, checking job codes, writing internal reports, consolidating meeting notes, or assessing the quality of documents.
One heavy engineering company reduced multi-week contract analysis cycles to a few days. A property maintenance firm now avoids thousands of hours of back-office reconciliation because contractors can request the correct job code through a multilingual WhatsApp agent.
All of these use cases can reduce risk, improve consistency, and return time to people so they can focus on what they do best.
And remember, it’s okay not to do everything at once. Start with something
small, just one or two steps in your business workflow. Maybe spend just 10 minutes a day trying out new tools, such as Perplexity, NotebookLM or Copilot. You might be surprised how quickly habits and processes can shift.
Dave Wilson: “Go after pain or possibility. You can solve some pain or build possibilities.”
‘Culture eats technology for breakfast’
Angela Hunter joyfully admits that ChatGPT (“Mr Chatty”) has changed her working life. However, she also believes absolutely that company culture trumps technology, and encourages managers to empower their employees through leading by example.
The most successful organisations share several traits. They:
• Encourage curiosity rather than perfection
• Provide clear and safe parameters around privacy and data security
• Reward experimentation (including the fails)
• Share learnings widely, rather than letting AI skills reside with a single enthusiast
Angela Hunter Chief Customer and Revenue Officer, Voyager Internet
Dave Wilson CEO, IT360
Matt Ensor Gen AI Leader, Kia Ora AI
Rob Hayden Global Manager – AI Innovation, Thryv
Many SMEs assume their biggest challenge is choosing the right tool. In reality, the barrier is often capability, not technical skill. You have to understand a business well enough to recognise what should be automated, and how.
That capability must be built deliberately. Training, peer learning, “power hours”, and internal AI champions all help to establish shared confidence.
A focus on the customer experience
There was a strong argument that the next competitive advantage will come from AI-enabled customer centricity.
If bots are increasingly researching our products, comparing competitors and even completing purchases without ever visiting a website, then businesses must rethink how they present, explain and add value.
Crucially, as Greg Cross highlighted, businesses need to capture more meaningful, accurate data about their customers. Without it, AI cannot tailor
experiences, predict demand, or help teams identify high-value market opportunities. The 80/20 principle remains: if 20 per cent of customers deliver 80 per cent of profit, companies should know five times more about those customers.
Greg Cross: “If you want to survive and become more valuable and competitive in the AI era, you fundamentally need to know more about your customers than anyone else.”
Privacy, security, and choosing tools wisely
Data sovereignty and trust are major concerns for both businesses and their customers, but the message was largely reassuring: modern AI tools offer increasingly strong privacy options, provided companies choose the right plans, store data in their own tenancy (e.g., SharePoint or Google Workspace), and set clear policies.
A few of the apps recommended by the experts
Canva
User-friendly design platform to help create polished graphics, presentations, and marketing assets
Domain Genie
Generates business name ideas and domain suggestions based on the user’s style and preferences
Gamma
Presentation creation tool that builds decks from text prompts
HeyGen
Creates realistic AI avatars and voice clones for video, used for training or content creation
The advice was consistent:
• Pay for the business-tier version where possible.
• Turn off model training.
• Keep transcripts and documents in your own cloud environment.
• Set commonsense guidelines, designed not to restrict people, but to give them confidence.
Cybersecurity is changing rapidly, too, with AI-driven attacks becoming more sophisticated. This makes vendor trust, due diligence, and alignment of values with partners and suppliers more important than ever.
Justin Flitter: “AI is going to change the skills you need in your businesses to be relevant and competitive.”
Where to next?
There was genuine optimism about this! Looking ahead 12–24 months, experts expect us to be entering a phase where AI will not only complete tasks but also work towards a specified, desired result. Instead of mapping out every step, we’ll simply explain the goal, and the system will automatically connect the dots, pulling in the right tools and data.
This could mean that the New Zealand workforce is more innovative, creative and entrepreneurial because they have time to be that way. Realistically, Kiwis could be 20 per cent more productive, not by working harder but by working smarter, with AI handling administration and humans focusing on creativity, relationships, and growth.
But opportunities tomorrow will only be accessible to those who begin building capability now. As Justin Flitter asked: “How are you going to be relevant to your customers and future employees if you’re not starting to build your AI muscle today?”
NotebookLM
An AI-powered “research assistant” that can analyse information and answer questions based on your data
Perplexity
An AI search engine combining web results with conversational, real-time answers
WISPRFlow
High-accuracy voice-totext tool allowing near real-time dictation.
Is the N ew Zealand Vehicle Market Finally Turning
a Corner?
We have some genuinely good news to share - and in the current economic climate, that feels like a breath of fresh air.
ew Zealand vehicle sales jumped 28% in September: 14,000 registrations compared to 11,731 in August.
Light passenger vehicles (including SUVs) are driving the recovery, with the Toyota RAV4 leading the charge at 1,281 sales, followed by the Mitsubishi Outlander and ASX.
On the commercial side, utes are holding steady with the Ford Ranger topping the charts at 827 sales and Toyota Hilux close behind at 769.
What We're Seeing at Driveline
The stats are encouraging, but what really gets us excited is what we're experiencing firsthand. Right now, we have a team of very busy wee chickens in the chicken coop!
Clients who shelved vehicle decisions 6-12 months ago are picking up the phone again. Businesses that have been sitting on the fence are now ready to move forward. The enquiries are flowing, the quotes are going out, and the deals are getting done.
It's not just about the numbers either - it's about the tone of the conversations. There's a shift in confidence. Businesses are feeling more positive about the future and making decisions accordingly.
Why This Matters
Vehicle purchases are often a leading indicator of business con fi dence. When companies invest in their fleets, it signals they're expecting
growth, planning for the future, and backing themselves.
After a tough 18 months, this sustained improvement since June isn't just a blip - it's a genuine sign that the economy is trying hard to bounce back.
If you've been holding off on replacing that ageing ute or upgrading your company vehicles, you're not alone. But increasingly, businesses are deciding that now's the time to act.
Want to chat about your vehicle needs?
Blending artistry with enterprise
A potter’s journey from passion to profession
AS MORE PEOPLE seek ways to disconnect from their devices and better support their mental wellbeing, pottery can offer a relaxing and satisfying escape. Creating with clay brings calm, focus, and a feeling of real accomplishment – something that Joanne Fairley understands completely.
Having had a varied career, encompassing floristry and physiotherapy, it was a mere eight years ago that Joanne first picked up a piece of clay at a weekend pottery class. She was, in her words, “instantly hooked!”
“I had an amazing tutor who gave me the confidence to explore, experiment and make a glorious mess while I learned. When Covid arrived, I’d just bought a wheel and continued my pottery journey,” she recalls. “Firing was the next hurdle, so I invested in a kiln. Little by little, my garage became a fully equipped home pottery studio.”
When Joanne’s part-time job ceased, she took this as a nudge from the Universe. “I invited a couple of people to join me for classes. Within a few months, those two classes became six a week, and my studio became a genuine hub of clay and conversation.”
Fairley Pottery soon outgrew that home studio, and Apollo Clay and Art is now located at 33 Apollo Drive. This move opened the door to more weekly classes, one-off workshops, parties, and corporate team-building events. There are member-
“For me, every kiln opening is like Christmas Day. Everyone makes different things in their own beautiful style.”
ships for more experienced potters, and the extra space has allowed Joanne to curate a gallery shop with both functional and artistic ware.
When asked about her favourite aspect of pottery and ceramics, Joanne answers quickly and enthusiastically. “Teaching! I love watching people surprise themselves by gaining confidence with each pull on the wheel or each coil that suddenly becomes a vase.”
She also says that the best part of every session is the collective energy, as ideas fly around the room, people happily show each other tricks, and the studio hums with encouragement. “The sense of achievement and pleasure everyone
gains from creating and taking their unique pieces home is wonderful to watch.”
And if you’re reading this article, thinking, “I’m just not creative enough to try pottery,” Joanne notes that most firsttime potters do not stay hesitant for long! “Ten minutes in and they’re grinning, sleeves rolled up, fully absorbed in the experience. Many return term after term or join as members. You truly don’t need to be ‘artistic’ because clay meets you where you are. You literally let your hands lead and see where the clay takes you.”
What to expect at a pottery class
During their first class, new potters are introduced to the studio, tools, and clay basics. They’re then shown how to handbuild (pinch pots, coil and slab) and throw on the wheel. “There’s plenty of time to play and practice,” Joanne assures. “You’ll finish several beginner-friendly pieces in your first session, often a couple of small bowls or a mug. Once these are bisque-fired, you’ll learn glazing techniques to finish your work. Everyone’s pieces emerge with their own personality; no two are alike. Watching people hold a mug they made themselves for the first time is magic. Everyone works at their own pace on their own pieces with no rush or pressure. I’m always there to answer questions, demonstrate techniques and offer guidance.”
Find out more about Apollo Clay and Art’s upcoming workshops. apolloclayandart.co.nz
Joanne has a particular love of ceramics. “I find ceramics to be a meditative process and one of the most rewarding activities.”
Accelerating success.
Located minutes from the CBD and Takapuna, the premises also offers an on-site café and competitive rental.
Contact the Master Agent Janet Marshall for further
BNH AGM 2025
BUSINESS NORTH HARBOUR (BNH)
would like to thank everyone who attended the 2025 Annual General Meeting of BNH Incorporated held in the BNH offices on 23 October at 4.30 pm.
Janet Marshall and Kevin O’Leary, in their respective capacities as Chair and General Manager (GM), both outlined the challenges and highlights of the 2024/25 financial year, which unfortunately saw the economic gloom continue, as high interest rates and the cost of living continued to challenge people’s spending ability and consequently businesses’ cash flow.
Following feedback from the annual Membership Survey, BNH was able to tailor its programmes and services to the identified needs and preferences of our members, ensuring that we continued to provide relevant programmes and services, all linked to the 3 Cs: Connect, Communicate, Collaborate.
In the 2024/25 financial year, the BNH Ambassadors continued their excellent work, contacting close to 2,000 members and identifying 154 new businesses that had been established in our local community. Another benefit of their work is that more affiliates and members are aware of BNH and the many bene-
Connect, Communicate, Collaborate
BRAND AMBASSADORS
1,979
Number of communications /contacts with members completed by the relationship team
154
Number of new businesses located in the BID, as identified by BNH Ambassadors
FUNDING PARTNERSHIPS
$72,000
Value of Gold, Silver, and Event Category Partnerships for 2024/25
$17,000
Value of Event Category Partnerships for 2024/25
fits of claiming their membership, which helps BNH to improve member awareness of and engagement with the organisation. Due to the improved accuracy of our member database, BNH was once again able to enhance communication and engagement across all our platforms, ensuring that key messages and information reached a wider range of members.
A highly successful in-person events programme, the diversity of which aimed to cater for all members, delivered 26 events, with over 2,000 registrations. The second iteration of the Purple Ink BNH Business Excellence Awards, with the Gala Dinner in November, was one of the highlights of the year, along with our inaugural charity fundraiser in partnership with Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, which saw 370 attendees raise over $18,500 for this excellent cause.
BNH continually supported members with the theme of “buying local” as a consistent message across our communication platforms. Our BUY NORTH HARBOUR Facebook page, along with the Business Directory on the BNH website, the Business Excellence Awards, and the B2B Business Showcase event, continued to provide other
$38,000
Value of Business Excellence Awards Partnerships (naming rights and category sponsorships)
Many thanks to our Partners and stakeholders for their financial support
FYI MAGAZINE
4 issues
9,760 printed copies
558 online reads Online reads remained as for 2023/24
BUSINESSNH.ORG.NZ
38,000 total website users
82,000 total sessions
SOCIAL MEDIA
30% LinkedIn growth
12% Facebook growth
26.79% Instagram growth
E-NEWSLETTERS
25 e-newsletters sent
31.7% e-newsletter average open rate - an increase of 18.7% on 2023/24
35.4% highest open rate
41.2% open rate on special news (e.g., What’s On updates)
SURVEYS
28 surveys sent 441 responses
platforms for members to showcase their business. In addition, we continued to advocate, both formally and informally, to our local MPs and to both local and central government on behalf of our members on a range of topics. We also endeavoured to keep members fully informed regarding relevant business-related topics, legislation, the support available, financial or otherwise, from various organisations and local transport and roading issues.
The incidence of crime in our BID remained low compared to many others, and, through excellent work from Dave, the general amenity of the BID is also the envy of many. These outcomes were supported by the fact that we were able to improve CCTV coverage within the BID by installing two additional cameras,
Events
26
Events and workshops
2
International business delegations hosted
2,079
Total event registrations 2024/2025 – up from 2,016 in 2023/24
(Note: this excludes invitation-only events, such as NFP get-togethers and CEO lunches)
95% Overall speaker quality rating
97% Members who said content was beneficial to their organisation.
2024/25
utilising some of the financial surplus from the previous financial year.
The Annual Financial Reports to 30 June 2025 were presented to the satisfaction of attendees, along with key performance measures for the current financial year. Additionally, the overarching strategy and business plan for the current financial year, through to June 2028, were also outlined. The draft budget for the 2026/27 financial year, which included a 3.0% increase in the targeted rate, was approved by members.
BNH thanked the remaining Executive Committee members for their ongoing work, extended a warm welcome to new Executive Committee members: Linda Kirk, Jacqui Cheal, Mike Renner, and
Crime Prevention
PATROLS
Nightly security patrols run 365 days a year with a particular focus on areas of risk of trending crime
1,125
Reports received on security issues, graffiti, illegal dumping, street lighting outages, and suspicious behaviour and vehicles
58
Visits to BNH members’ premises, resulting in 28 physical risk assessments to advise how to reduce future criminal offending
Greg Cramond, and sincerely thanked outgoing members: Chris Todd, Lance Manins, and Jenny Chen for their excellent service during their tenure.
Following the changes introduced by the Incorporated Societies Act (2022), it was confirmed that there have been no conflicts of interest declared in the Association Interest Register since the previous AGM.
Under Other Business, the GM shared with attendees the process to be followed and the relevant timelines for the proposed BID expansion project. Maps of the proposed expansion areas from BNH and the BID Team at Auckland Council were compared, with approval gained from attendees that the project should continue as per the process outlined.
Last but by no means least, the outstanding work from the entire BNH Team was acknowledged before the meeting closed.
VEHICLE CRIME
47%
Decrease in vehicle breakins in the last 12 months There have been additional daytime police security patrols at the Constellation and Albany park and ride locations. This presence has definitely helped to reduce incidents.
30%
Decrease in stolen cars
COMMUNITY SAFETY
18
Meetings between BNH and key stakeholders, including NZ Police and Vanguard Security Ltd
39
Reported incidents of burglary – a decrease of 22% on 2023/24 Corporate Social Responsibility
INORGANIC COLLECTIONS
2
Inorganic collections (Sept 2024 and March 2025)
39 Businesses that participated 98m3
Total amount collected 85m3
recycled by Abilities Group 13m3
taken to landfill
RECYCLING AND UPCYCLING
544
Pallets recycled, reducing roadside waste and upcycling to businesses that require additional pallets
FOOD WASTE COLLECTIONS
$4,445
Funding received from UHLB for 2024/25
27.82
Tonnes of food waste diverted from landfill this year
74.00
Tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions reduced from landfill this year
6
FREE food waste collections plus FREE kitchen bins offered to BNH members
26
Organisations having weekly collections, including cafés, catering companies, sports clubs, churches, and commercial businesses
Local business community camera network update
By Dave Loader, BNH’s Crime Prevention Specialist
THERE ARE CURRENTLY six road-facing cameras installed throughout the North Harbour BID, mounted on intersection streetlights or privately owned premises. These cameras are designed to help police track potential offenders entering our district who either commit burglaries or behave suspiciously.
Recently, the police contacted BNH on two separate occasions, requesting to view camera footage to assist in their burglary investigations. The camera network is consistently monitored by BNH’s security provider, Vanguard Security Ltd, who search for relevant information and provide a professional report to the police detailing their findings.
Annual report confirms crime is down in our area
BNH’S ANNUAL REPORT –available in full on the website – included positive news about criminal activity in our district.
Overall, crime in our BID remains low compared to others.
BNH’s intention is to expand the camera network. We have already identified two more sites. Once approved, these will add further road coverage to help identify vehicles of interest.
VidShare: helping to keep your team, business, and community safe
VIDSHARE IS A recent initiative from Vanguard Security. Company director, Carwyn Winiata, describes it as a CCTV searching and reporting service to help collate and report the facts. “Quite literally, this means we search our local networks of CCTV systems looking to unearth information relevant to your incident or reportable matter, i.e., a burglary, stolen goods, wilful damage or random act of stupidity, violence, or madness.
“The aim is to help you piece together the details for either evidential purposes or so that you’re not left wondering.”
VidShare is a first-of-its-kind programme for North Harbour and is available to BNH members only. BNH endorses this service and encourages as many local businesses as possible to sign up.
Find out more about VidShare
BNH is here to help protect you, your team, and your property. Visit our Crime Prevention page, have a chat with Dave Loader on 021 560 287 or email david@businessnh.org.nz
Your insights and feedback are crucial
At Business North Harbour, our goal has always been to help local businesses thrive. Whether through networking, advocacy, or practical support, our services are here to make it easier for you to connect, communicate, and collaborate.
TO MAKE SURE we stay focused on what’s important to you, we rely on your feedback. Every year, our membership survey gives you the opportunity to tell us what’s working, what could be better, and what you need next. Your responses directly shape our events, initiatives, and priorities for the year ahead, and provide a valuable snapshot of the local business landscape.
This year’s survey ran from 29th May to 11th June and was shared via the BNH website and fortnightly EDM.
Here’s a summary of what you told us.
Who are our survey respondents?
Please rate the following on a scale of 1-5.
1 being poor and 5 being excellent
What are your most important business goals for the next 12 months?
Of the services we offer our members, which do you currently take advantage of?
How important are the following to you and your business on a scale of 1-5?
1 being not important at all, 5 being very important
your
Is Your Team Spending 20+ Hours a Week on Repetitive Admin?
Get Your Free Automation Opportunity Report.
Complete our 3-minute assessment and receive your personalised report tailored to your business and industry showing:
Where your business is losing the most time Which processes have the highest automation ROI potential Your AI readiness score
Plus: All participating North Shore businesses enter the draw for a complimentary 4-hour implementation workshop (valued at $3,500) where we build your automation roadmap for 2026.
Take your assessment
Applications close 28 February.
Unlock the power of your AI that’s hiding in plain sight
By Aaron Redwood
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ISN’T just for large corporates. It’s already built into many tools small businesses use every day. Applications like Xero can generate cashflow forecasts, while Microsoft Word offers AI writing assistance, which can
actually help you to improve your own writing skills. CRM platforms such as Salesforce and Zoho provide built-in AI that delivers prompts and insights exactly when they’re needed. Think automation, only smarter!
Before rushing to try the latest trend, take a moment to explore what’s already at your fingertips. Many paid-for platforms now include AI features designed to save time and boost productivity. For example, in a call centre, AI can automatically transcribe calls and reduce “wrap-up” time – freeing up the team to focus on what they do best: building customer relationships.
The team at Spark Business Hub Auckland North is here to help you realise the AI potential you already have.
As the saying goes, one brick at a time builds the wall. You don’t need to do everything all at once!
Our team, supported by trusted experts, can help you identify existing AI tools that might be flying under your radar. By using what you already have more effectively, you can unlock real efficiency without extra cost.
0800 482 746 spark.co.nz/hubaucklandnorth
Cleaning Costs too High?
Aaron Redwood of Spark Business Hub Auckland North
Check your health and safety with SafePlus
LOOKING AFTER YOUR people is good for business. To help you understand if your health and safety practices are working well, WorkSafe has launched new SafePlus self-assessment resources.
SafePlus resources are free, easy to use, and designed for New Zealand businesses in all industries.
The old SafePlus online survey tool was retired in June 2025. In its place, WorkSafe now offers downloadable resources you can use to run your own health and safety survey.
These resources help you:
• Gather feedback from everyone in your business, from owners to frontline workers.
• Assess three key areas that drive good health and safety: leadership, worker engagement, and risk management.
• Calculate your SafePlus rating to see how your business measures up.
• Spot what’s working well and where to improve so you can take action.
Why it matters
Healthy, safe workplaces mean fewer disruptions and a stronger team. These resources make it simple to check how you’re doing and identify improvements.
End of Windows 10 support prompts call to recycle tech responsibly
“DITCH YOUR OBSOLETE tech responsibly” is the message Auckland Council (AC) wants Aucklanders to heed, as thousands of computers were rendered out-of-date when support for Windows 10 was terminated in October.
Batteries and electronics in rubbish or recycling bins can be damaged as part of the waste collection process and ignite fires, endangering staff and the public, and damaging trucks and facilities. AC senior waste operations safety specialist Lyndon Collie says Auckland’s waste collection trucks experienced a record nine fires in January alone, with a further four before the end of March. “We’ve only had a couple of truck fires this winter, but as the weather warms up and people start spring cleaning and ditching their old tech in favour of new devices in the Christmas sales, the risk skyrockets.”
In November, AC planned further controlled lithium-ion battery fire tests in a waste truck as a follow-up to its initial trial earlier in the year, which aimed to understand how battery fires
start inside trucks and how they can be extinguished quickly and safely.
“Our world-first trial in February provided valuable insights, but to strengthen our initial findings, we need more robust data, specifically on air and water contamination inside the truck during a fire, and the effectiveness of different extinguishing methods,” says Mr Collie.
Aucklanders can help avoid the need for such measures through proper disposal.
“Responsible disposal and recycling your e-waste not only prevents the risk of fires but also helps Auckland on our journey to zero waste by 2040. These actions conserve valuable resources and support a circular economy,” Mr Collie explains.
AC encourages residents to use designated drop-off points for e-waste:
• To dispose of a still-working laptop, contact the Recycle A Device (RAD) programme, a non-profit organisation that refurbishes laptops for those in most need, while giving school students skills to repair them.
Your data stays with you. WorkSafe doesn’t see your survey results.
Get started today. Download the SafePlus self-assessment resources from the WorkSafe website.
• TechCollect NZ and Noel Leeming accept laptops and accessories, even if they weren’t purchased there.
• Community E-waste Collection Days hosted by Echo (formerly known as Computer Recycling). Check the Echo website for their calendar of collection days.
• Some community recycling centres accept e-waste for a small fee.
And, of course, BNH members can take advantage of BNH’s twice-yearly inorganic collections, conducted in partnership with Abilities Group. These are the perfect opportunity to dispose of your organisation’s e-waste (and any other unwanted items), as the Abilities team recycles as many materials as possible, minimising what’s sent to landfill.
The sustainability implications of AI
By Andy Kenworthy, Sustainable Business Network
THERE ARE A host of issues to consider about AI in terms of ethics and sustainability.
Most of what we currently encounter as AI is curated and customised internet content. An obvious problem is that this extends the internet’s erosion of copyright for original creators. There’s a “divide and conquer” going on. Graphic designers and artists know AI visuals are soulless rubbish, even if some of us think they’re passable. It’s the same with professional writers and AI text.
The ethical way to approach this is as your schoolkids should. Support human creativity, professionalism and learning. Don’t pass AI stuff off as your own work. And if you think you really have to use it, label it properly.
Remember, it’s all done with ever more computers: power-hungry new facilities sucking in rivers of cooling water. Estimates suggest an average AI search uses between 10 and 75 times as much energy as a standard one. It generates hundreds of times more greenhouse emissions. So you should at least monitor and limit AI use if you’re minimising your environmental impact.
This can be difficult, though. AI is now included in many everyday applications. Every Google search now launches a simultaneous AI search, whether you want to see it or not. And AI is very good at research. Here again, use human talent to check the results. Even big names like Deloitte have been caught out by fictitious references in reports.
…an average AI search uses between 10 and 75 times as much energy as a standard one.
The next step is letting AI manage and deploy the data in your business. This should also be approached with caution. Where real currency is not exchanged for such services, the data itself becomes the currency. If you use free versions of these tools, it’s wise to assume your information isn’t secure. It’s being used by the AI company and its associates. If you pay for secure versions, data can still leak. Sometimes these companies
break their own rules and the law. Sometimes they mess up or get hacked.
It all comes down to who you trust, and whether your customers also trust them. Remember, AI companies are vying for global dominance. They may not always act in the interests of you, sustainability or ethics.
Consider the world these companies are creating. Many of those developing AI have said it creates a real risk of human extinction. Others warn of mass unemployment. First, the “knowledge economy” could be subsumed. Then, in combination with robotics, physical labour could also be totally mechanised. Consider, too, what AI is doing to us. The internet has only been widely available for 30 years. For those of us plugged into it, it’s transformed what it means to be human, and not always in a positive direction. Even doing more of our own work, boosted by machines owned far away and at the expense of employing people in our community, may not prove to be a sustainable path.
So before pushing that button, be as mindful of this relationship as you would with any other supplier, or anyone you hand money and power to in your life.
Car bonnets becoming half a centimetre higher every year, driving road safety fears
Research from the UK and Europe might give New Zealand drivers pause for thought
RESEARCH BY THE Clean Cities Campaign has found that the bonnet height of new cars in Europe is increasing by half a centimetre a year, on average, driven by the growth in SUV sales.
Clean Cities Campaign’s media release states that new car bonnets were 83.8cm high, on average, in 2024 – up from 76.9cm in 2010, according to the report, which covers the EU, the UK and Norway and is the first to analyse bonnet heights at European level. The rise coincides with the steady increase of SUV sales from 12 per cent of the European market in 2010 to 56 per cent last year. European and national laws do not limit bonnet height.
“In crashes, high-fronted cars typically strike adult pedestrians above the centre of gravity, often first hitting vital organs. The higher the vehicle front, the more likely a person will be knocked under the car, rather than pushed to the side, at speeds of up to 50km/h. One study, based on crashes involving 300,000 road users in Belgium, suggests that a 10 cm increase in bonnet height (from 80cm to 90cm) raises the risk of death by 27 per cent for pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users.”
More than 30 civil society organisations have called on the EU and the UK to cap bonnet height by 2035 as part of a reform package to limit ever-expanding car dimensions.
Read more about Clean Cities Campaign’s research
Government is ‘restoring democracy to Auckland’s transport’
THE GOVERNMENT HAS announced “the most significant reforms to Auckland’s transport system since 2010”, which it said are aimed at restoring democratic accountability and giving Aucklanders greater oversight of transport decisions.
Under the changes, responsibility for most transport functions, including policy, planning, capital projects, and infrastructure maintenance, will shift from Auckland Transport to Auckland Council. AT will become a smaller council-controlled organisation focused on delivering public transport services. The reforms propose establishing an Auckland Regional Transport Committee comprised of equal numbers
of Auckland Council elected members and ministerial appointees, headed by an independent chair. That committee will draft a 30-year transport plan to guide investment and development in the region.
Local boards will gain new powers over local and collector roads, including setting speed limits, managing parking, cycleways, and road closures for events. Arterial roads and the city centre will fall under the authority of Auckland Council’s governing body (the mayor and 20 councillors).
Auckland Minister Simeon Brown says the changes are about delivering the modern, reliable transport system the city deserves.
“For too long, Auckland Transport has failed to listen to Aucklanders and take their views into account. That’s why we’re changing the law,” Mr Brown said.
“By putting decisions back in the hands of elected representatives, we’re restoring democratic legitimacy and ensuring Aucklanders can have a direct say in the transport policies that shape their city.”
The bill had its first reading in September, with passage expected by March 2026. After a six-month transition, the new governance structure should be fully implemented by September 2026 (or earlier).
Read the full announcement on the Beehive website
The higher the bonnet, the bigger the blind spot. More highfronted SUVs would mean more children drivers don't see
Analysis based on children of
Want quality insurance advice from a local? Leave it to us.
Rothbury North Harbour ILG 09 414 2563
simon.helm@rothbury.co.nz rothbury.co.nz
Introducing Vidshare by Vanguard Security
EVER WISHED YOU had CCTV footage to help explain or solve an incident? With Vidshare, now you can.
Vidshare is a CCTV searching and reporting service designed to help you uncover facts surrounding incidents such as burglaries, theft, wilful damage, or suspicious activity. We search a local network of CCTV systems to find and report information relevant to your case, helping you piece together what happened for evidential or personal understanding.
Membership:
This first-of-its-kind programme is currently available exclusively to Business North Harbour members. How it works:
Members share their common areafacing cameras (carparks, driveways, road views) from their North Harbour premises. In return, Vanguard Security coordinates and collates footage across the network to identify activity related to reported NZ Police incidents.
Programme membership is free – you simply share access to your relevant cameras. Only members can request searches:
• $55 + GST for a search of your own system
• $110 + GST for a wider network search
The process:
Our operators carefully review CCTV systems, tracing timelines, vehicle movements, and offender characteristics to create a detailed report. This work is
handled securely within Vanguard’s monitoring facility in the Business North Harbour district, which manages over a thousand live cameras across various systems (Dahua, Hikvision, Uniview, NX Witness, TVT, VIGI, and more).
Privacy & Security:
You retain full control of your CCTV. Vanguard only accesses your shared cameras when investigating a verified incident. No one else can view or use your footage.
Benefits:
• Coordinated local security
• Faster, easier evidence collection
• Broader CCTV coverage
• Support for NZ Police and insurance reporting
• Cost-effective community protection
Vidshare – helping you see the bigger picture.
Vanguard Security (09) 441 2232 or info@vanguardsecurity.co.nz
The Smart Lock by Kiwis, for Kiwis
IN A MARKET flooded with imported smart devices, the Yale Unity® Slim Smart Lock is a true local innovation. Designed, powder-coated, and assembled on the North Shore, it’s a standout example of what happens when Kiwi engineers, product designers, and hardware specialists collaborate under one roof.
Built for New Zealand’s climate and homes, the Unity Slim tackles common smart lock issues — poor weather resistance, limited serviceability, and generic finishes. Its powder-coating is locally applied in-house, engineered to withstand UV, rain, and wear. Local assembly means faster design iteration, better quality control, and fewer defects. And when it comes to delivery, speed and flexibility matter. From the moment
FOUNDED IN AUCKLAND in 2017, Orange PR is a bilingual marketing and communications agency that bridges New Zealand and China through storytelling.
We believe that the most powerful campaigns are born from genuine cultural understanding. Our team of strategists, creatives, and event specialists crafts brand stories that resonate across borders — helping Kiwi brands speak authentically to Chinese-speaking audiences both locally and internationally.
Over the past eight years, Orange PR has proudly partnered with leading brands, including Partridge Jewellers, Comvita, DFS, Cloudy Bay, Zealong Tea,
an order is placed, customers can receive the Unity Slim — in the colour, handle style, and backset to suit their door — within just four days. Not to mention, it can be matched to the rest of your window and door hardware for a consistent look and feel.
This lock isn’t just smart — it’s smartly made. Every unit supports local jobs and capability, reinforcing our commitment to the New Zealand building industry. Adoption has exceeded expectations, with strong uptake across residential projects.
And the industry agrees: the Unity Slim won the Innovation Category at the 2025 Window and Glass Association Design Awards, and took Silver at the 2025 Best Awards in the Consumer Product category.
Sometimes, the best innovation isn’t shipped in — it’s built right here in our own backyard.
yalehome.com/nz
and Honda NZ. From brand launches and influencer collaborations to international trade events, we deliver strategy with substance and creativity with heart. Recognised with the NZ Chinese Business Awards – Entrepreneurship Award
(2024), Orange PR Marketing continues to champion excellence in cross-cultural communication.
Beyond campaigns, our mission is to celebrate the spirit of connection — between East and West, brands and people, stories and emotions. We believe every great idea deserves to travel further and touch more hearts.
Orange PR Head Office: Auckland, New Zealand Email: info@orangepr.co.nz www.orangepr.co.nz
Yale Unity® Slim Smart Lock
Assembly
Powder coating
Asian Business Collective: Boss’Day
北港华商第一届老板节
Asian Business Collective | Boss’ Day 2025 - Business North Harbour
Understanding yields, borrowing and owner-occupiers
THERE HAS BEEN a noticeable increase in commercial property sales activity across the North Shore as business confidence improves and investors return to the market. Enquiry levels have strengthened, and favourably located properties with secure income streams are attracting strong interest from both private and institutional buyers.
Investors are once again assessing long-term opportunities, encouraged by stabilising interest rates and improving rental returns. Many are focusing on quality tenanted investments, where lease security, tenant covenant, and building fundamentals remain key drivers of value.
A significant factor for investors is the property’s yield – the return on investment generated by the rental income. Yield is calculated by dividing the property’s net annual rental income by the purchase price, then expressing it as a percentage. For example, if a property provides $120,000 in annual rent and sells for $2,000,000, the yield is 6 per cent.
Yields will vary depending on several factors, including location, tenant quality, lease term, building age, and market sentiment. Prime industrial and retail properties typically achieve sharper yields, while secondary properties or those with shorter leases trade at softer returns.
Another noticeable trend is the rise in businesses choosing to own and occupy their premises. With leasing costs and operating expenses continuing to climb,
many business owners are exploring ownership as a way to secure their longterm occupancy, fix costs, and benefit from potential capital growth. Owning provides stability and control, while leasing may still be suitable for those who prefer flexibility or need to preserve working capital.
For both investors and owner-occupiers, access to finance remains a key consideration. Banks have become more cautious, often requiring detailed financial information, valuations, seismic reports, and rental evidence before confirming approval. If you are considering a purchase, it’s wise to speak with your lender early and ask how long finance approval is likely to take, as
commercial lending timeframes can vary from two to six weeks depending on complexity and valuation requirements. Understanding your borrowing capacity upfront helps you negotiate with confidence and move quickly when the right opportunity arises. Pre-approved finance also positions you strongly in competitive sales campaigns, particularly when unconditional offers are sought.
With more stock coming to the market and solid demand from both investors and owner-occupiers, 2026 is shaping up to be an active year for commercial property. Whether buying, selling or refinancing, now is the time to review your strategy and ensure your decisions align with your long-term goals.
Janet Marshall is a director at Colliers North Shore, a business mentor at BMNZ and board executive with Business North Harbour and Takapuna Beach Business Association. Contact Janet on 021 684 775 or email janet. marshall@colliers.com for sales or leasing enquiries.
C1 & C2, 40 Triton Drive, Albany
Accelerating success.
Prime spot in the heart of Albany Village available From February 2026. Owner occupiers, investors and tenants - this is a great opportunity!
• 2,711 sqm total area - can be split
• Would suit office, medical, or education purposes
• Modern and efficient layout with ample natural light
• Close to Westfield Albany, cafés, and motorway access to CBD, North, and West
• Competitive rental rates for large-scale, well-located office space
Contact the Sole Agents for further information and / or to view.
rable to Australia’s 16 years ago and the United Kingdom’s 40 years ago.
These aren’t just numbers; they represent lives affected and futures altered.
Some progress is being made in at-risk sectors such as construction, agriculture, forestry and manufacturing, and updated Approved Codes of Practice should help further when rolled out next year.
While overall injury claims are declining, the average time off work per injury has doubled in a decade — a worrying trend that affects productivity, drives up ACC levies, and strains already stretched teams. High staff turnover also undermines safety culture, creating a hard-to-break cycle.
for the EMA to launch our Safety AdviceLine earlier in the year, providing direct, practical help for employers. We provide one-on-one guidance on practical questions such as:
• What are my responsibilities under New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work Act?
• How should I report a workplace hazard or incident?
• Do we need to provide emergency response or evacuation training?
• How do health and safety policies apply when staff travel for work?
• When should I consider a fit-for-work assessment?
Workplace Health and Safety Management (Level 6). What we see time and again is that the businesses investing in prevention, planning and education are the ones achieving stronger performance and productivity outcomes.
The question every business owner and manager should be asking isn’t “What happens if something goes wrong?” but “What can I do today to stop it from happening in the first place?”
To find out more about the EMA’s Safety AdviceLine, go to ema.co.nz/services/health-and-safety
A place to connect, heal, and thrive: how Immerse’s Ingage programme supports young people and their whānau
URSULA AND GEORGE Elisara founded Immerse in 2018 as a government-accredited foster care agency. Being foster parents themselves, their ongoing mission is to help see a transformed and transformational culture of foster care in Aotearoa.
Over the past eight years, Immerse has flourished. At its heart, the organisation remains focused on supporting children, young people, and families whose lives have been shaped by trauma, loss, or disconnection. Now based in Ceres Court, the charity provides specialist support services to help tamariki and rangatahi connect, heal, and thrive within safe, nurturing relationships.
“Our work is grounded in the belief that with the right care, understanding, and consistency, every young person can find their sense of belonging and self-worth,” explains George. “Ours is a combined approach, incorporating therapy, mentoring, and family support to help strengthen the entire whānau.”
Among Immerse’s various initiatives, one of the most popular is Ingage, “a therapeutic programme wrapped in fun” that has been operating since 2018 and supports tamariki and rangatahi in the care of Oranga Tamariki (Auckland region).
What is Ingage?
Providing valuable and reliable respite for caregivers, Ingage runs from 9.30 am until 3.00 pm on every second Saturday during the school term. Starting and
Through carefully designed activities and consistent relationships, Ingage supports young people to develop selfregulation and life skills, form trusting relationships with safe adults, and have their sensory and emotional needs met.
ending at City Impact Church on East Coast Road, the programme offers children a chance to connect, learn, and simply enjoy being kids in a supportive and structured environment.
Each day begins with Nurture Group, a play-focused, therapy-based session where participants explore life skills, values, and self-regulation strategies using Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®) principles. These activities help young people build trust, recognise and manage emotions, and develop positive coping tools they can carry into everyday life.
After morning sessions, the group heads out for a shared adventure –anything from horse riding, swimming,
and art classes to museum visits, rock climbing, or cooking workshops. Every activity is chosen to reinforce learning, build confidence, and meet each child’s sensory and emotional needs. Meals, snacks, and drinks are all provided, along with an Ingage t-shirt to wear to reaffirm that message of inclusion. Moreover, what makes Ingage so special is its consistency and commitment to relationships. Each tamaiti is paired with the same trained adult volunteer (their “buddy”) who provides one-on-one support and a safe, trusted connection. These volunteers are all TBRI-trained, ensuring that every interaction reflects empathy, understanding, and stability.
The programme also keeps caregivers closely involved. A fortnightly newsletter shares insights into the current therapeutic focus, helping parents and whānau reinforce the same messages and techniques at home. It’s a simple but effective way to bridge the gap between structured sessions and daily life.
How
BNH members can help make Ingage Saturdays special DOES YOUR ORGANISATION offer a fun activity that Ingage’s young people would enjoy? Could your business sponsor a Saturday session?
The team at Immerse would love to hear from you. Please get in touch to chat about how you can help make a difference that lasts far beyond one day.
