Invest Auckland - innovation and investment
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Features
Auckland welcomes investors
Sponsored by Auckland City Council, the investment forum will bring together New Zealand and Australian companies who, having weathered the financial crisis, are now seeking new investment opportunities.
Attendees will hear from investors, government officials, corporate leaders from around the world, and opinion leaders from academia and the media.
The forum, held at the Regency Hyatt hotel, offers a fantastic opportunity to those looking to accelerate their investment relationships, build an investment pipeline and hear the thoughts of some of the region’s top leaders.
For more information, please visit
www.investmentnz.govt.nz/investmentforum.
A new international bank for Aucklanders
Satish Vermani
The Bank of Baroda is the third largest public sector bank in India. With over 3000 branches in India and 78 offices in 25 other countries, spread across every continent, the bank provides services to more than 39 million customers worldwide.
Bank of Baroda, widely known amongst Auckland's Indian community, is eyeing up a share of the business and personal banking sectors.
"We've opened our first branch close to where people live," said Satish Vermani, Managing Director, Bank of Baroda New Zealand.
He also stresses that his bank is not just for the Indian community.
"We believe that we can offer value to all Aucklanders", he said.
The bank will recruit local staff by the end of February.
Bank of Baroda (NZ) Ltd is New Zealand's 19th bank.
For further information, contact:
Satish Vermani
Managing Director
Bank Of Baroda (NZ) Ltd
Post Box 56580, Auckland 1446
114
Dominion Road, Auckland
E-mail: md.nz@bankofbaroda.com
RWC 2011 - It's sooner than you think
Are you ready to take advantage of the business opportunities that RWC 2011 will bring? Have you thought about what those opportunities could be for your business?
These questions and others were asked of the audience at the recent Auckland ICT Cluster event hosted by Auckland City Council. Keynote speaker Sharon Hunter gave an inspiring presentation to the group, challenging them to make the most of the economic boost that this event will bring.
As a member of the 2011 Group, Sharon is well versed in the potential and scope of the tournament. She shared insights into the direct and indirect opportunities available to businesses during the lead up and for the duration of the event. With more than 60,000 international visitors expected to arrive on our shores, the consensus was there is considerable work to be done to be ready in time. Collaboration may be required for companies to achieve the required scale and business ideas will need to be scoped, fleshed out and rolled out very quickly.
An opportunity for businesses to tout their ideas for RWC 2011 is happening at
Bizzone in June. Auckland City Council in conjunction with other key partners will host a speed networking and idea-pitching forum where small to medium sized businesses can meet with key stakeholders to discuss their ideas.
Businesses will be invited to submit their ideas in advance and if they meet the business criteria, they will be invited to
'pitch' their idea to interested parties.
For more information, keep watching www.bizzone.com for updates or
contact us.
Tourism Auckland hosts visitor ready workshops
Tourism Auckland has launched a series of free and informative workshops in February to help tourism operators get their business set for Rugby World Cup (RWC) 2011.
The six areas of focus for the Visitor Ready Workshops are designed to assist tourism operators, of all types and sizes from across the region, to gain maximum benefit from the event while contributing to a great visitor experience.
Workshops kicked-off on 10 February 2010 and run until the end of March 2010, with each session offered in three locations across Auckland.
For more information or to register to attend, please visit
visitorready.aucklandnz.com.
Making R&D work for your business
Celebrating innovation through Research & Development (R&D), 'Ideas to Impact' is a publication covering case studies of 11 New Zealand companies who have created opportunities in the face of adversity.
One of the responsibilities of the Ministry of Research, Science and Technology is to encourage the innovation and commercialisation of scientific and technological knowledge and ideas. In support of this, MORST has released
'Ideas to Impact', which celebrates innovation through Research & Development (R&D). Case studies include 11 New Zealand companies who have created opportunities from adversity.
From software and anchors to hospital beds and cinema speakers, these companies are listening to their customers, doing their market research and keeping pace with change. Three inspiring Auckland companies featured include: Auto Anchor, Optima Corporation and Pet-Tek.
The publication also includes tips on getting started with R&D, the government assistance available and a list of research institutions.
If you would like a copy
email us.
Supporting OMEGA, Supporting the Labour Market
Auckland City Council has committed to supporting an initiative designed to increase employment opportunities for qualified immigrants in Auckland. The council will become one of seven core funders of the newly independent not-for-profit organisation OMEGA (Opportunities for Migrant Employment in Greater Auckland).
Other core funders are ANZ, BNZ, Genesis Energy, Gen-I, New Zealand Post Group and State Insurance.
Working with local businesses, OMEGA facilitates a mentoring programme and an internship programme, both designed specifically to place skilled immigrants into jobs that match their skills and experience.
"Auckland is a true melting pot, one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world, with one in three residents born overseas," says His Worship the Mayor, Hon John Banks.
"The city attracts international talent and it is important we support initiatives that tap into that talent. I want to see fewer engineers driving taxis. I want all people living in Auckland to have the opportunities make the best contribution they can towards making Auckland a vibrant, diverse, and cosmopolitan city."
Justin Treagus, OMEGA Programme Director, says the organisation is thrilled to receive council support.
"People who enter our programmes possess the education, experience and language skills needed to excel in the workforce. All they are missing are the connections and the local knowledge that can only be gained from real-life experience. We match new immigrants with professionals in a similar field to gain information, networks, advice and New Zealand experience that can lead to suitable employment."
The council's funding of OMEGA supports one of the goals in its Economic Development Strategy, which focuses on becoming a city that has
"skilled adaptable and educated people leading to a labour force that meets the economy's needs." Auckland City Council is currently undertaking research in a range of areas related to the labour market, aimed at informing future actions. Research recently completed on the role of migrants in Auckland city's labour market has found that:
- Approximately 50 per cent of all immigrants to New Zealand choose to settle in the Auckland region and offer a high level of skills in a traditionally tight labour market.
- Overseas born employed residents tend to concentrate in Auckland city and on average are more qualified than employees nationally.
- In Auckland city, 38 per cent of overseas born residents have an education qualification equal or superior to Bachelor Degree, as compared to 36.2 per cent of total employed.
- Auckland city's employed immigrants work predominantly in high skilled occupations such as professionals, managers and technicians.
Read a full copy of the research summary (Omega
website).
Riding the wave of RWC 2011 - Creating a Legacy for
Auckland
Creating a Legacy for Auckland
In much the same way that the America's Cup series was a catalyst for the creation of the Viaduct Harbour, the vision for the region is to leave a positive legacy from Rugby World Cup 2011 for all to enjoy in future years.
With an eye on this ambition, regional representatives have come up with a legacy plan with five core goals. Dubbed the ‘Tight Five', these core goals have been developed to take advantage of the momentum created by RWC 2011 and will drive change in Auckland's social, environmental, economic and cultural landscapes.
The "tight five" goals are:
- Making the most of Auckland's waterfront
- Telling the world Auckland's story
- Taking pride in our place
- Making public transport a habit for Aucklanders
- Positioning Auckland as a major events destination
Preparations for delivering these benefits are already well underway with projects such as the redevelopment of Eden Park, traffic and transport improvements and the proposed upgrade of Auckland's waterfront (including Wynyard quarter, the Marine events centre and Queens Wharf ), all targeting completion dates in time for kick-off in September 2011.
Improved public access to the waterfront and the potential for more tourism and business investment are all initiatives that will bring immediate and long-term benefits to the region.
Delivering on these goals will also provide the opportunity to demonstrate to the rest of the world that we are capable of hosting world-class events.
You can read more about Auckland's Rugby World Cup Legacy - 2011 and beyond, at
www.auckland2011.com.
Gearing up is our business
Tipped to bring around 60,000 international visitors, 2000 media and a global TV audience of more than four billion, it makes sound business sense for Aucklanders to take advantage of the huge opportunities that RWC 2011 will bring.
In support of our local businesses, Auckland City Council recently held the first in series of workshops to provide information and tools to help gear up for the big event. Representatives from Auckland business communities and mainstreets gathered to discuss the economic benefits that the event will bring. The workshop focussed on developing collaborative ideas that would benefit Auckland communities, bringing vibrancy and attraction into the town centres and economic benefits for the region.
The workshop also introduced the RWC 2011
Business Opportunities Guide. The guide has been developed to provide Auckland businesses with the tools and information they will need so they can be geared up and ready for kick off. The guide has been put together by the RWC 2011 regional economic development workstream as one of the many initiatives being implemented to support businesses during this time.
Also gearing up to take advantage of the opportunities that RWC will bring is Auckland's ICT cluster. Auckland ICT is a region-wide network of representatives from the ICT sector who meet regularly for speaking and networking events. This month at an event hosted by Auckland City Council, the group will hear from Sharon Hunter (Founder of PC Direct New Zealand's largest and most successful homegrown computer company). They will also be discussing ICT specific opportunities that RWC 2011 will bring.
To register for the event, or to become a member of Auckland ICT, please
visit www.aucklandict.org.nz.
The launch of a nationwide Rugby World Cup tender site (Tenderlink) was also
announced earlier this month.
The website is an initiative of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, and has been developed as a means for keeping businesses informed of some of the tendering opportunities available to them throughout the tournament and its lead up. Through the site businesses can view and tender for procurement of contracts offered by various tournament organisations.
Registration is free to prospective suppliers, and businesses are encouraged to register on the site for updates on opportunities as they arise. Once suppliers are registered on the site, they will be sent automatic notification when new tenders are loaded.
For more information, visit
www.tenderlink.com/businessopportunities2011
www.auckland2011.com/business.asp
How
can I make a difference? Become a mentor!
Many New Zealand migrants are forced to take survival jobs (e.g. taxi drivers, cleaners) as they battle to crack the labour market without local experience. These skilled individuals are underused capacity for NZ; they are already here, highly qualified, have an excellent grasp of the English language and are committed to settling in New Zealand. Getting them into jobs that fit is both an instant lift to productivity, and opens up unskilled jobs for other unskilled people.
OMEGA (Opportunities for Migrant Employment in Greater Auckland) is a not-for-profit organisation working to increase the employment of qualified migrants in Auckland in jobs that match their skills and experience.
OMEGA have a large pool of skilled new migrants who are tertiary educated, speak fluent English and have considerable work experience from a wide range of industries. They are seeking Auckland professionals to act as mentors to share their knowledge about their industry and the kiwi work culture with these Internationally Trained Professionals. OMEGA provide orientation and ongoing coaching support for all mentors.
By introducing the new migrant to the New Zealand work environment, the mentor can help them:
- identify required skills
- proceed with accreditation or skills upgrading
- gather information on local industries and employers
- identify and seize employment or job training opportunities
- build a professional network.
A small commitment from a mentor can make a big impact to the life of a new migrant. As a mentor you commit to 16 hours of your time over a four-month period to help a new migrant navigate the job search process by sharing your knowledge and experience. During this time you will have the opportunity to:
- develop your coaching communication and leadership skills
- work with people from different backgrounds and cultures
- motivate and support a person to raise their level of attainment and fulfil their potential
- become more aware of job market and industry trends
- learn international methodologies relating to their industry.
Auckland City Council is a key supporter of OMEGA, having more mentors than any other organisation in Auckland, including senior management such as David Rankin, chief executive, and John Duthie, general manager of city development.
"Being a mentor has been an enjoyable and enlightening experience and has helped me develop my coaching skills. I would highly recommend the mentors programme", says Claire Morris from the council's
Economic Development group.
"It's a great way to contribute to Auckland and offer practical help to new migrants."
Phone OMEGA on 09 300 5594, register your interest on their website
www.omega.org.nz or send them an email at
info@omega.org.nz, if you'd like to become a mentor and make a meaningful difference to a new kiwi.
The choice is Auckland - even in recession
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| Andre Clarke. |
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The investment team proactively targets the biotechnology sector and shared service centres (back office functions of large national and multi-national companies). Research undertaken for the team highlighted these two sectors as growth areas that match Auckland's strengths. The team are using this research to help persuade companies to choose Auckland over its competitor cities mainly in Australia. Stephen Cavanagh, the council's investment manager says,
"Auckland is a great location for overseas and major New Zealand companies, offering good quality accommodation and a skilled and educated workforce with a lower operating cost than many of our competitors.
"The investment team deal with investment enquiries from companies.
They offer them practical advice, provide information and co-ordinate assistance from across the council and from external partners across the professions.
The team are also proactively contacting overseas-owned companies with Auckland bases, as well as major NZ companies to find out about their future plans and explore areas where the council can assist.
International growth consulting firm Frost & Sullivan has recently extended its reach by establishing in Auckland. A low cost, prestigious address; demand for services and high quality research; the accessibility of New Zealand CEOs
- these are just some of the reasons Frost & Sullivan has established in downtown Auckland.
Billing itself as the company that partners with organisations to promote major growth, Frost & Sullivan expects its own revenues in Auckland to more than double over 12 months. Previously, the company served the demands of New Zealand from its Sydney office.
"With this move, we have put our people close to our customers and potential customers," says Andre Clarke, country manager for Frost & Sullivan.
"There is a sufficient volume of work here to warrant a base."
Frost & Sullivan is present in more than 32 markets around the world, employs over 900 analysts and services thousands of companies. Despite the recession, the company established in Auckland because it saw considerable opportunity.
"Recession is potentially a good time to establish," says Andre. "It's a cost effective time to begin, and many private clients and potential clients find that for the first time in years there is now a window to plan for the future. Government is also still spending and looking forward. It is carving out opportunities. Organisations are looking for resources to help them gear up for the next ten years."
Frost & Sullivan is known best for its extensive, sector-based research capabilities and expertise, delivered through its consulting services, subscription based syndicated research programmes, and its international events. Frost & Sullivan is already working with government organisations, CRIs and large private organisations in New Zealand to help them understand and analyse trends and opportunities globally.
"Auckland is great for a foundation in New Zealand," he says. "Clearly it's the largest city with the greatest access to businesses. It is also easy to find a CBD office in a prestigious location, for relatively low cost. New Zealand CEOs are prepared to listen to outside advice, and they are open-minded. You can pick up the phone and call them. From an Auckland office, you can also easily get to them
- no matter where they are in the country."
Andre understands the mindset of New Zealand business. An expatriot New Zealander who spent 26 years overseas, he returned for the lifestyle after years spent travelling the world.
"The impact of the global recession on business sectors has yet to be fully felt," he says.
"In New Zealand, as in the rest of the world, sector based research and analysis is proving a very valuable tool in staying ahead."
Other examples of recent investment successes include, two expansion projects from a major IT outsourcing operation that has already created an extra 13 jobs and will create another 30 jobs by the end of August, as well as a multi-million dollar bio fuels plant located in Onehunga creating 23 jobs.
For more information, please visit www.investauckland.com.
Rugby World Cup 2011: Grasp the business opportunities
There are obvious benefits that will flow from the 60,000 international supporters estimated to converge on the region. The potential benefits to business go beyond the tourist dollars that the tournament will bring to the region.
In what is an excellent example of regional collaboration, a comprehensive programme of economic activities is being developed to ensure maximum economic leverage for the region.
This work is being led by AucklandPlus, the region's economic development agency. Auckland City Council is playing an active role in this programme.
"Rugby World Cup 2011 has the potential to generate up to NZ$267 million of direct economic benefits for Auckland and we must capitalise on this opportunity", says Auckland City Council's group manager City Events, Rachael Dacy.
A great example of this work is the recent launch of the Business Opportunities Guide. This guide is predominantly aimed at small to medium enterprises and provides advice on how to capitalise on opportunities that arise from the tournament. It educates and informs businesses on how to prepare for new commercial opportunities, access supply chains, develop relevant products and services for RWC visitors, and ultimately maximise the economic return from the tournament at a local level. The guide is available online at
www.auckland2011.com/business. The full version of the business opportunities guide will be available in September 2009.
The guide has been developed by AucklandPlus with funding support from the Auckland Region and New Zealand Trade & Enterprise.
Phase two of this programme will be launched in the 12 months leading up to the event, with the roll out of a Business Ready programme. This will help educate and inform visitor-facing businesses located in event precincts or high foot traffic areas.
The region's economic development work is also developing other programmes as part of the package of activity to maximise the benefits of the event for Auckland, including investor attraction and attraction and development of skills and labour.
New plant to boost Auckland bio-fuel industry
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| Gary Brockett. |
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A multi-million dollar Auckland plant that will produce diesel fuel made from a sustainable resource will be the largest of its kind in New Zealand.
The plant being built by Ecodiesel Ltd in Onehunga will use tallow to produce up to 20 million litres of biodiesel per year and create 23 full time jobs for engineers, chemists, lab technicians, plant operators and other skilled workers.
It will be the first commercial-scale biodiesel plant in New Zealand capable of producing biodiesel that meets the technical specifications required by major oil companies. The new plant builds on the company's experience at their pilot plant facility which has run successfully in Onehunga for more than two years.
Ecodiesel chief executive and founder, Gary Brockett, says "Ecodiesel has a sustainable competitive advantage in the market because the cost of converting tallow, which is purified animal fat, into biodiesel will be much lower than could be achieved using alternative international technologies that require more heat energy and capital.
"The purpose-built Ecodiesel facility on Captain Springs Road which is scheduled for completion in October is located close to the diesel and petrol storage and blending facilities operated by the major oil companies at Wiri."
Mr Brockett has spent 30 years developing and commercialising chemical technologies and processes in New Zealand and Australia.
"The plant also complements the operations of a number of Auckland and Waikato meat processing ventures which render animal products into tallow, and so local feedstock is available," he added.
"The Ecodiesel process can convert any animal, vegetable or waste fat to high-quality biodiesel and is therefore able to utilise a variety of feedstock sources available in New Zealand.
"To produce 20 million litres of biofuel, Ecodiesel would consume about 18,000 tonnes of tallow which represents about 14 per cent of the 130,000 tonnes of tallow exported from New Zealand each year."
"A 5 per cent blend of biodiesel with regular diesel is safe to use in all standard diesel engines with no modifications.
"The outlook for Ecodiesel is very positive given the global trend of growing demand for sustainable sources of energy and New Zealand's commitment to a green economy.
"The project has also had positive spinoffs for the local construction industry creating about 30 jobs and more will be created if the plant's capacity is doubled to 40 million litres at a later date."
In 2007, Ecodiesel raised $3 million in equity capital and is presently entertaining offers for expansion funding.
Updated November 2009
