LEADER COLUMN NOVEMBER 2012

It could be said that all business is a competition between various enterprises competing with each other to give the customer better a service or product for their money. Their main function is to be efficient producers of goods and services responding to market demands. Business assists in the provision of an economic environment that allows us to live and work where we chose. Many businesses support a wide range of community and not for profit initiatives. Often their endeavours go unrecognised and although they do not expect any recognition; sometimes we should take time to celebrate the contribution of Northland’s business owners. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who were involved in this year’s Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards which culminated with the award’s gala evening on the 26th October. The Awards provides an opportunity to celebrate business excellence and the role it plays in our community. Through business, countless individuals can apply their talents to achieve their own aspirations and to provide service for others. If we can celebrate and respect these people, and foster a better understanding of the contribution business makes to the wider community, then this will go a long way to inspiring others pursue their own aspirations. It is amazing to see how much passion the entrants have for their business and the products or services they provide. Embarking on a business venture can be daunting enough but to place your business under the scrutiny of a panel of judges to be measured against asset criteria requires a special sort of person. As always these events rely heavily on the contribution of sponsors who assist in various ways to make them a success. This year’s event received special support from Warwick Bell and the team at Palmers Canvas and Fabric Structure Systems who kindly provided a venue for the gala evening. The lack of suitable venues for large events continues to be a concern for our region because without such infrastructure Whangarei will always struggle to fulfil its potential to host a variety of events and conventions. The generosity of Warwick et al on this occasion was deeply appreciated. New Zealand Chambers of Commerce Northland is fortunate to have the support of many local and national businesses without whom organising an event of this scale would not be possible. Through their support they are real champions of Northland business.