Fast forward to the future

BOP MP Todd Muller and Ballance chair Duncan Coull open the newly renovated Balance Agri-nutrient building in Mount Maunganui.

Ballance Agri-Nutrient celebrated the opening of its newly extended and renovated building in Mount Manuganui by burying a time capsule.

The $5 million project includes a new wing and renovated offices.

Over 70 items were included in the time capsule, which is to be opened in 2072.

Items buried include a staff uniform, photos, utility bills, company publications, newspapers, a Covid-19 information pack, product samples, and more.

Included is a list of predictions for what the world will be like when the time capsule is opened.

“I can only imagine the humour in 50 years’ time when the Ballance team open and read our stories and see the examples of innovation and reflect on how far they have come,” says Mark Wynne, Ballance CEO.

Ballance chair Duncan Coull says they are “a proud co-operative”, collectively owned by 17,000 farming and growing families throughout New Zealand.

“Farmers and growers have intergenerational businesses, to be able to walk alongside them, we need to build resilience in our network.”

“This intergenerational investment to future-proof our home in Mount Manuganui is a small snapshot of our overall network investment.

“Through-out New Zealand we are investing in smart technology and future-proofing our assets to ensure New Zealand’s primary sector continues to be the backbone of our economy.

“Buildings are just buildings, they have no feelings, it’s our people that create the atmosphere and culture. The Ballance team will continue to focus on innovation, creating more sustainable nutrient solutions, and in the case of this building, a more sustainable work environment,” Duncan says.

“Our values of caring for the land and people of New Zealand are evident throughout the building, from the 100 per cent wool carpet, to the trees that were sourced from all over New Zealand and the use of recycled materials wherever possible,” Mark says.

At the opening a Tōtara tree was planted by staff. The Tōtara can live for 1000 years, signifying strength and longevity.

The Tōtara was donated by Turning Point Trust a mental health and wellbeing agency based at the Historic Village, 17th Ave, Tauranga. Turning Point offers vocational work streams, one of which is a Horticulture group.

New Zealand’s story is often told through Totara, as it is at the heart of Māori carving and culture. The durability of the timber is why it was used as fence posts.

The Tōtara was donated by Turning Point Trust a mental health and wellbeing agency based at the Historic Village (17th Ave, Tauranga). Turning Point offers vocational work streams, one of which is a Horticulture group.

The vibrant interior reflects Ballance’s aspiration to provide their team with a welcoming, contemporary and bright workspace.

The design team drew inspiration from the Ballance brand and New Zealand native plants and products. The tables, chairs and furniture coverings are all made from recycled materials, and the coffee table in reception is a re-purposed milk shed trolley.

“Everything you see, and touch reflects the natural environment, Ballance and New Zealand farmers and growers,” says Duncan Coull.


0 Comments

There are no comments on this article.

Leave a Comment

You must be logged in to make a comment. Login Now
Opinion Poll

We're not running a poll right now. Check back soon!