Disaster firm in awards avalanche
It was a procession for Disaster Prepare Ltd at last week’s Westpac Porirua Business Excellence Awards.
The earthquake safety services company was nominated in four categories – professional services, innovation, sustainability and micro business – and won them all.
It then scooped the supreme award at the function, hosted by Porirua Chamber of Commerce at Te Rauparaha Arena.
Disaster Prepare chief executive Graham Nel spent more time on the stage than at his table, and said the awards were ‘‘nothing short of a team effort’’.
‘‘We’ve always been focused on our key values of quality, safety and innovation,’’ he said.
‘‘It’s more than looking at your global impact, it’s about what impact you have in your community as well.
‘‘It’s been a short journey and a tough journey, but here we are. Wow, what a night for us.’’
Other multiple category winners were Porirua Club (vibrancy/tourism/hospitality and large business) and Mana Pharmacy (retail and medium business). Tuohy Homes (trades/construction) and Partners Porirua (not for profit) were the other winners.
Partners Porirua’s executive director Michelle Robinson said the not-for-profit organisations in the city were doing great work, often unheralded.
‘‘They contribute to the city as employers and in economic commitment, and the calibre of people involved is often high,’’ she said.
Xenia McIlroy Stuart from the Supply Room and Sam Kemp from Duck Creek Cafe and Restaurant were joint victors in the young employee section.
Porirua mayor Nick Leggett also presented a short video, starring himself, imploring Porirua businesses and residents to sign up to the Gigatown campaign.
Outgoing chamber chairman Don Casagranda was acknowledged, and his company, On Arrival New Zealand, received a highly commended award in the professional services category.