NZ Aerial Mapping (NZAM) is the world’s second oldest aerial survey company. It began business in Hawke’s Bay in 1936 and the way it all happens today is virtually unrecognisable from that of 70 years ago, says financial accountant Philip Pinckney. But some things don’t change. Hastings is still head office.
Business manager David Napier says they tried Auckland as a base, but only briefly. “Rents were prohibitive and vital members of the staff did not want to leave The Bay.”
Sales and marketing is, however, split between Hastings and Auckland and the company has an aviation base in Dubai.
NZAM has clients from Invercargill to Northland, as well as in Australia, India, the Middle East and North Africa. And as the scale of the business grows, Pinckney says the company is liaising with the local economic development agency and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise to ensure they are taking advantage of the contacts and support available.
Finding staff for such specialised work is a challenge for NZAM, but not because its Hawke’s Bay based. “We’re not a standard business and there are few roles that are readily available in any region. For specific roles we tend to advertise in Hawke’s Bay, Auckland and Wellington.”
Pinckney was already on the move from Wellington to Hawke’s Bay when he joined NZAM; so would he swap the lifestyle?
“I don’t think anywhere else has the combination of climate, amenities and career opportunities. So, no.”
Article courtesy of NZBusiness magazine. |
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Aerial View of Cape Kidnappers, Hawke's Bay
Courtesy of NZ Aerial Mapping |