Celebrate being in business!

I had a chat last week with the owner of a small business here in Warkworth. During our conversation, they said something that stuck with me: “I’d probably be better off working at a supermarket, where I could clock out at the end of the day and not worry about staff rosters, taxes, suppliers, or council fees.”

This comment got me thinking about how business owners are often perceived. There’s a common belief that business owners are raking it in, while all the pressure falls on their workers. But those of us who have been in business know the reality is quite different. In fact, around 97% of businesses in New Zealand are classified as small to medium, and making a success of any business is no easy feat.

Sure, people might think that being a business owner means you have the freedom to come and go as you please. But they don’t see the late nights and weekends spent trying to balance the books, worrying about whether they can pay the suppliers, the tax office, and their staff. Often, paying themselves comes last on the list.

These are the things that keep many business owners awake at night. Of course, some businesses do well, but people don’t always see the hard work and long hours it took to get them there, or the personal sacrifices along the way.

So, why am I mentioning this? Because when you look at our local business owners, I want you to remember that they’ve invested more than just money and time into their businesses. Often, their homes are tied up in it, too. For them, this isn’t just a job—it’s their future. They’re responsible not only for their business but also for the wellbeing of their staff. You’d be surprised how often wages are paid out, but the owner is left without a paycheck.

I know people might be tired of hearing me push the “Buy Local” message, but these businesses are the backbone of our community. They deserve our support and respect for the risks they’ve taken and the effort they’ve put in.

The answer is simple: Buy Local. Support Local. Employ Local. Love Local.

We really are stronger together.

Murray Chapman

Manager, One Mahurangi Business Association

Email: [email protected]

onemahurangi.co.nz

Northland Waste Takes Top Honours at This Year’s Northland Business Awards!

We’re thrilled to announce that Northland Waste, a One Mahurangi member and Silver Sponsor, has been named the Supreme Winner at this year’s awards, earning recognition across three major categories—a testament to their remarkable leadership and community impact.

Here’s a closer look at Northland Waste’s achievements:

Supreme Excellence Award – Celebrating their outstanding leadership and influence within the business community.

Excellence in Business - Large Business Award – Acknowledging their resilience and consistent growth over the years.

Best Digital Adaptation Award – Recognising their forward-thinking approach to digital innovation.

Judges' Comments

The judges commended Northland Waste for its steady growth since 2008, highlighting their innovative, tailored solutions that benefit both employees and clients. Their strong, people-centered culture and unwavering commitment to innovation set them apart as they continue to shape the future of waste management.

Congratulations to Northland Waste on these well-deserved accolades!

Read the NZ Herald article HERE>

Congratulations to Davco Electrical Services, a valued One Mahurangi Silver Sponsor, on their recent success at the Master Electricians Awards! Davco was honoured with the Lighting Design Award for their impressive work on the Mahurangi Riverbank lighting installation as part of the Te Hokinga Mahara (Collection of Memories) project.

This award-winning installation is no ordinary lighting project. Davco's work reflects a meticulous blend of cultural respect, ecological consideration, and technical prowess. Designed to illuminate the riverbank with both beauty and purpose, the installation also required Davco to navigate complex civil, health and safety, and technical challenges. Their dedication and skill in executing this vision have set a new benchmark for lighting design in the region.

This achievement is a fantastic recognition of Davco’s expertise and commitment to creating projects that enhance our community spaces with creativity and care. Well done to the Davco team!

Read the full Master Electricians Press Release HERE>

OMBA SILVER SPONSOR

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