Fulfilling father’s final wish
As Geoff Maber accepted the Contribution to Community Award at the Matamata-Piako District Business Awards on behalf of the Maber family, he paid special tribute to his late father, Laurie.
‘‘I feel unbelievably privileged to be standing here in the greatest district in the world, the farming capital of the world, accepting this award. This is a pretty great place we have,’’ he said.
‘‘We lost my lovely dad three months ago and he would be so proud of us, as I am.’’
The Maber family runs the Powerfarming business, which has served New Zealand and Australian tractor and machinery markets for three generations. It was established in 1946 by Laurie Maber.
Geoff Maber spoke of his father’s passion for the Morrinsville community. His legacy would continue with the creation of a giant 7-metre cow.
‘‘My dad’s last wishes because he was so taken by the Herd of Cows project in Morrinsville, we will be presenting a 7m cow to the people of Morrinsville.’’
Matamata-Piako businesses gathered to recognise the efforts and success of local businesses.
The event was organised by Matamata-Piako District Council to acknowledge distinction in local business.
About 300 people from across the district attended the event.
The recurring theme at the awards this year was passion and the event’s keynote speaker was Theresa Gattung, former CEO of Contribution to Community Award: Maber Family. Gull Customer Service Award: Forget Me Not Florist (Matamata); Unichem Pharmacy (Morrinsville); Te Aroha Veterinary Services (Te Aroha). Bayleys Business Excellence Award: Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tours (Matamata); Dirpose Miller (Morrinsville); K9 Country Kennels (Te Aroha).
Telecom and co-founder of My Food Bag. She spoke about her journey and business philosophies.
She encouraged everyone to seize opportunities.
‘‘You can’t be respected and popular at the same time, you need to understand what powers you,’’ she said. ‘‘Life is a marathon, not a sprint. When a door shuts, find a window.’’