HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Ahika Consulting was launched eight years ago by Rhys Millar (Managing Director) and Lloyd McGinty (Director and Energy Consultant).

LLoyd says the world is changing at such speed at the moment and it is “mind blowing” to be involved. “From my perspective, I think we need to look back to find solutions for the future. These are interesting times to be involved in the sectors of bioenergy, land use, biodiversity and carbon containment.”

He trained as a plumber/gas fitter gaining over 15 years’ experience in this field. Later, he attended Otago University, graduating with a science degree in energy studies. LLoyd believes his plumbing skills complement his professional qualifications and provide an additional insight into practical processes and building services. He is in charge of Ahika finances “ensuring our vessel is robust in all weathers”.

He says he has been heavily involved in all aspects of energy management including feasibility assessments for energy efficiency projects, site metering for large industrial processes and developing intensity benchmarks and plant audits. Added to that, Lloyd is very involved in the Otago and Southland wood biomass sectors and has been involved in a large number of wood feasibility projects for energy plants. Most recently he returned from Europe after visiting large biomass district heating and co-generation plants to ensure Dunedin follows and learns closely from Europe for local applications.

He is an accredited energy auditor with the Energy Management Association of New Zealand.

Rhys Millar has been working in conservation, forest restoration, land use and environmental planning for 20 years. LLoyd says Rhys has well-developed skills in conservation management, project management, community stakeholder engagement, business management and developing effective partnerships that have a collaborative impact.

Rhys successfully develops early concepts into successful and sustained projects, and mixes work with corporates and councils throughout New Zealand. LLoyd adds that Rhys is heavily involved in the not-for-profit environmental sectors and led the initial development roles in The Halo Project and predator-free Dunedin.

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Forestry Science, Rhys is currently a member of the New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) and Institute of Directors.

He also sits on the Standards Development Group for the Forest Stewardship Council (FSCNZ) and the Environmental Advisory Committee (Te Ao Turoa) for the Dunedin City Council.